Copper- alloy, 30.85 grams, 50.13 mm. Circa 14th century AD. The figurine is of a bearded male in classical ‘Late Roman’ garb, the undergarment’s sleeve of the right arm ending at the elbow while the left arm is covered by the folds of a toga, carefully modelled with a broad stripe. The right hand is raised to shoulder-height and the figure’s index and middle fingers are extended in the classic benedictional gesture. The left hand is held against the midriff and clasps a key, held with the loop in the lap and the wards on the chest. The folds of cloth on the lower limbs are modelled in detail, but the figure has no detailing on the feet. The reverse of the piece is hollowed: an upper void in the area of the chest and a larger one behind the legs. There is a small attachment lug behind the figure’s right arm. The crown of the head is pierced at the back. There are traces of red enamel on the left arm, right shoulder, left leg and both feet. The posture, hollow back and legs of the present piece suggest that it was designed to be viewed as seated, the hollowed areas would accommodate a modelled high-backed chair. The void in the back of the head was intended to accept a modelled (gilded?) nimbus. Keys are associated with several saints, most notably SS. James and Peter. The benedictional gesture and key held loop-downwards are often depicted associated with St. Peter in mediaeval art, for example in the painting entitled São Pedro in the Museu Grão Vasco de Viseu, Portugal, painted in 1506. The present piece is almost certainly a miniaturised version of the bronze statue “The Foot of St. Peter” in the Vatican basilica, created by Arnofo di Cambio and completed around 1300. Reference: Garibaldi, V. & Toscano, B. Arnolfo Di Cambio: Una Rinascita Nell'Umbria Medievale, Rome, 2005. Very fine condition.