What is this brass object used for?

Hi!
Does anyone know what this small brass object is used for? It has been in my junk drawer for 20 years! The previous owner of the house (now deceased) left it in the back of a drawer.

Brass object inside, outside and "key" by Kathy Maroney posted Aug 6, 2017 at 10:06 AM

Opening brass object with "key" by Kathy Maroney posted Aug 6, 2017 at 10:06 AM

Brass object closed by Kathy Maroney posted Aug 6, 2017 at 10:06 AM

 

It's a Chinese padlock. Used for boxes and cupboards.

Here: http://www.historicallocks.com/en/site/h/articles/padlocks-in-china/categories-of-locks/

 

Thank you, Ownedbybear! Have a great day.

 

You guys got it, a Chinese lock and key, they come in different sizes, and some are figural, I had a collection of them. Image is of 2 trays from an auction I won years ago. Each had it's key attached with a cord, some inserted into it's lock slot.
If you have an antique Chinese box, it's great to have a lock and key compatible with it, and be able to put in the front metal hardware parts.

 

You're very welcome.

 

Most definitely a Chinese padlock. I have a cousin who uses one of these on the front door of her apartment. It's a pain in the ass to open!!

 

WHY is the; Best Answer not always available on each comment!!!???!!!

 

I'm flattered at the acknowledgement that my answer was obviously the greatest

 

Well....
That was a general question to all that in hindsight should've been tagged to OBB's comment.
Sorry!
But you do provide BA's often enough!
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When I answer comments I use the reply button ON the comment not at the page bottom.