Ancient Silver Lock for the Door of the Tomb of Prophet Muhammad

The Ancient Silver Lock for the Door of the Tomb of Prophet Muhammad is an ancient lock for the door of the Tomb of Prophet Muhammad, crafted from silver and inscribed with some verses, names, and prayers.

Length: 24.5 cm.

Width: Twelve cm.

Height: 2.5 cm.

The lock of the door of the Tomb of Prophet Muhammad dates back to the Ottoman period. It is considered one of the ornamental elements of doors due to its design. Its source is the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques (currently the General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.)

The National Museum in the capital, Riyadh, preserves the silver lock of the door, which is registered under number 30035/2/T.

The lock of the door of the Tomb of Prophet Muhammad was selected as one of the pieces showcased alongside a curated collection of Saudi artifacts in the Saudi Archaeological Masterpieces Through the Ages Exhibition. The exhibition began its journey across museums and galleries worldwide, including Asia, Europe, and America, starting at the Louvre Museum in the French capital, Paris, in 2010.

This lock, cast specifically from silver for the Tomb of Prophet Muhammad in the Prophet’s Mosque in al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, highlights the great care given to the components of the Prophet’s Mosque. It also signifies the sophistication and flourishing of metal craftsmanship. The manufacturing technique used for the lock's components reflects the artisan's expertise and their ability to adapt their craft to meet specific requirements.