Finger ring key
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This bronze ring key could have been worn either on the finger or on a cord around the neck. The key part sits neatly against the finger and it would have been possible to open a rotary lock while wearing it. It might have been used to open a strongbox or casket. Although this type of key was used throughout the Roman period, the simple and functional style of this one probably means it is an early type.
Found at Brislington Roman villa site during the development of what is now Winchester Road in December 1899. The villa is contemporary with several others in the region, built about AD 270 as a working farm with workshops until destroyed by fire about AD 370.
Photographs exhibited with kind permission of Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, which has this in its collection (reference number F1230).
Material: metal
Period: Romano-British
Find spot: Winchester Road, Brislington. ST 616709
Exhibit contributed by Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
Text written by Dawn Witherspoon, 2012
Photographer: Ken Taylor
Acquisition number: 120316a7