What is an antique brass escutcheon?

An antique brass escutcheon is a protective metal plate surrounding a keyhole on furniture and boxes. They serve both a practical purpose in preventing wood damage and a decorative role across various historical styles.

How do I date an escutcheon?

Dating relies on the surrounding furniture style, the casting technique, and the shape of the metal plate. Georgian examples differ in contour and engraving depth from later Victorian or Edwardian counterparts.

Are brass escutcheons always original?

Replacement hardware occurs frequently on antique furniture due to lost keys and sustained wear over centuries. Examining screw types and wood impressions helps determine if the plate has remained in place since manufacture.

Which woods appear with these plates?

Mahogany, oak, walnut, rosewood, and padouk frequently form the base materials supporting these brass fittings. These dense timbers provide a stable foundation for flush-mounted hardware.