Keyhole Arrowslie, France 15th century or earlier

Keyhole shaped arrowslit. It was common for arrowslits to widen at the bottom in order to allow defenders a clearer view of the base of the wall. The bottom could widen in a triangular shape (‘fishtail’) or in a circular shape (‘keyhole’). As this is a small arrowslit, it was most probably used for crossbows. Limestone (outside creamy-yellowish coloured, inside greyish-white). On both sides of the circular part, the stonecutter took the effort to decorate the stone with grooves or ‘canelures’. We date this architectural fragment to the 15th century or earlier. It could be from southern France or northern Spain. Weathered yet unbroken. Good condition. It is rare to find these for sale.
Dimensions: 36x20x12cm. Weight: 10,5kg.