? French Leg-Irons

Just returned from France and picked up an old set of Darby type leg-irons (unfortunately no key). There are no markings on them and were said to be from the late 1800's. Looking at the linkage and the way the plug has been put in they look posssibly German? As far as I know France have never produced darby type handcuffs or leg-irons. Does any one have a similar set or have any thoughts?
Chris

Hello Chris,

I was told that these Darby handcuffs, which I bought in France, are of French origin. The swivel make me believe that this could be right - it' similar e.g. to French La Policiere handcuffs.

Best regards,
Guenter aka Atame
www.atame.info