This lovely French postbox dates from the 1930s. Note the classic Art Deco font stylistic of the Belle Epoque. During the 1950s, the lock mechanism was replaced to conform to the Post's standards. The lock's design is rather ingenious - the door will not close unless it is locked - and the key cannot be removed unless it is locked shut. This was so that the postman would not forget to take the key! Made from a melange of metals including iron, cast iron, and aluminium.