Handle and escutcheon with latch 18th century

This 18th-century handle and escutcheon with latch is a fine example of wrought ironwork. The intricate design features a central cross and is adorned with swirling foliage, stars, and other decorative elements. The handle itself is intricately crafted and topped with a dome-like finial. The escutcheon, the decorative plate surrounding the keyhole, is equally ornate, with a detailed design that complements the handle. The latch, a separate piece, is also elegantly fashioned with a simple design. This anonymous artwork, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, demonstrates the craftsmanship and artistry of ironwork during the 18th century.