In heraldry, an escutcheon was a shield shaped emblem bearing a coat of arms. Early keyhole covers were shaped like a shield and the name is still in use today.
Keyhole Design
The majority of modern escutcheons are usually round, but patterns are also available in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials and finishes to match the door furniture. There are plain and decorative patterns which are purely functional and others which are provided with a separate cover plate to conceal the keyhole. This cover can stop draughts when attached to an external door and discourages ‘spying’ on internal doors such as the bedroom.
Decorative Finishes
In the black antique furniture range, covered and uncovered escutcheons are available in decorative shapes such as shields, ‘fleur de lys’, floral and plaque which can be chosen to match both external and internal door and window furniture.
