The Keepers Key Safe Story
By Randal Gatewood
In the days of old, keeping valuables safe was quite a task.
Wooden locks and keys were implemented in this task. In those days, a ‘Keeper‘
was engaged as the sentry of the lock, and of the key. Where there were locks, there were
valuables and therefore, there were thieves. Over time, the biggest dilemma for the Keeper
was the “loss” of a key. This was indeed a tragedy for the Keeper since the
retribution for such failure could be quite harsh. Thus, the “Keepers Key Safe”
was created. The key could be deposited into the box with the panel “locked”
using the key slot in the panel. The box was only identifiable and solvable by its Keeper
- a secret of the Keepers trade. Fact is... common folk of those times could not
manipulate its concept. The object is to remove the key from the box without degrading the
box.
If you succeed, it is certain you may class yourself well above
that of the common folk of old.
The Keepers Key Safe is the second box in the Randal Gatewood collection. This
photograph is of Box #026.
This puzzle box requires 7 moves before
you can retrieve the key (pictured below) from inside the safe. It is a moderately
difficult puzzle to solve, requiring a strange sequence of moves that are indeterminable
by most who try this uniquely designed puzzle box. When you slide the smooth action lid
open, you are met with a solid hardwood 'panel' that is impressed with Randal's branded
signature logo and you can also see the key slot as described in the 'story'. This is
where the challenge begins!
The
Keepers Key Safe Puzzle Box is made from White Argentine Mahogany hardwood, implementing a
decorative box joint design. The box and all its components are made of hardwood - no
metal was used at all. This box is made to fine woodworking standards and is of very high
quality. Randal also includes a "story card" with the 'Keepers Key Safe' tale.
Each
piece of this puzzle has some significance, in either the solution, or in the story
about the puzzle. Randal
applies a hand rubbed lacquer finish that he specially mixes himself. After a series of
applications, bees wax is applied to the lacquer coat and then the entire box is finalized
with teak oil. The box is hand polished between each step. The result is a very warm,
smooth - low luster finish.
To
see this box opened, click here - then use
your browser’s ”Back” button to return to this page.
The next edition of 20 boxes will be available fall, 2005. We are accepting orders
for these boxes now. Cleverwood’s Certificate of Authenticity and color solution
brochure come with each box.
