I was recently commissioned to illustrate this magnificent Roman key from Southwark for the Portable Antiquity Scheme. The key is made from copper alloy and was originally made in two parts: the lion couchant body which is finely cast, and the key itself, also cast and inserted into the rear of the lion.
The body and legs of the lion has ring and dot, and line decoration, as well as a beautifully sculpted mane, and a rather enigmatic smile. Zoomorphic artefacts can be particularily tricky to illustrate, especially if they are laughing at you!
