A SAFAVID ADJUSTABLE BRASS COMBINATION LOCK

An almost identical lock was exhibited in 1976 (Parviz Tanavoli and John T. Wertime, Locks from Iran, Washington D.C. 1976, no.252, fig.24 and pl.VI). Both must be from the same workshop and period, and have the same characteristics. The combination on these locks can be changed when they are open. Each ring with its inscriptions has a crenellated end hidden under the annular rings. It also has an inner similar ring which is the one which has the opening through which the lock can slide out. Thus by changing the position of each inner ring relative to the outer when the lock is open, one can change the combination as it is read on the outer inscribed band. This mechanism is very clearly shown by Tanavoli and Wertime in the published illustration as fig.24 on p.42.