Door Knocker History

Though the history of door knocker is unwritten, but it is fact that they are being used since many centuries. They have evolved themselves in many phases of history carrying the message of the periods they belong. The first material that was first used for constructing door knocker was wrought iron. Door knockers of wrought iron was commonly used in USA and Europe in 17th and 18th century. Cast-iron door knockers followed Wrought iron door knockers. However these door knockers were overshadowed by brass door knockers that remained the popular door knockers till the modern times.

 

Door knockers were predominantly used during the Romanesque, the Gothic, and the Renaissance periods. The door knockers of earlier period may be classified into three main categories:

 

Door knockers of the Medieval period were designed carefully whereas, door knockers of Renaissance period were given fanciful treatment. showed the most fanciful treatment. The shape of the knocker during Gothic period was diamond-shape which was decorated richly with pierced work this motif continued even in the renaissance period.

 

Door knockers of the medieval period was extensively carved and designed with intricate patterns. The first material that was probably used for making door knocker was iron. This was because iron was inexpensive. Iron was replaced by brass which is still the prominent knocking materials because they not only serve the purpose but also add beauty to the door.

 

In the medieval period these knockers were used by houses of all classes. They were given finishing touch with exceptional craftsmanship. The main feature of the knockers of this period was that they were larger then those found in the modern period.

 

Door knockers remained popular till 19th century. However after 19th century, the new concept of home furnishing replaced the old ones. Door design no longer remained paneled. Its place was taken by simple door with plain surface. This resulted in the disappearance of knockers.

 

This however does not means the complete vanishing away of the knockers for they showed again the sign of appearance in early 20th century. These items were installed on the door as an antique pieces.

 

The size of earlier knockers were big as compared to modern door knockers. They were presented in numerous ornamentation like Animals head, Garland of roses, Medusa's head, etc. Apart from decorative door knockers, simple door knockers were also produced. The simple door knockers were designed in plain or oval shapes with beaded borders. Shapes in which these knockers come had the striker round or stirrup-shaped. They can be both plain and ornamented. There is on more style which consist of elongated loop drawn down to form the striker . The striker is ornamented whereas the plate is plain.

 

The modern door knockers often copy the style and try to reproduce the medieval door knockers. They are sold as an antique door knockers. These knockers though are carved richly but have no historical value. Also their demand too is not so high in the market.

 

The medieval knocker that is preferred most in the modern times are the Georgian urn or vase, the thumb latch, and the eagle. Whereas, Medusa's head, and the Daphne's head is also sometimes found. Garland knocker was also prevalent and was mainly used on the doors of the rich.

 

Horseshoe knocker which is a beautiful example of hammer class knocker still adorns the house of many American and British houses. They are constructed of wrought iron through hammering. The ornate knockers that were carved in the medieval period included Greek or Georgian vases or urns, eagles in difficult positions, heads of Medusa and other mythological ladies and Italian Renaissance subjects like nymphs, mermaids, garlands, streamers and ribbons.

 

In late 19th century when the houses of new architectural pattern began to be constructed, door knockers passed into oblivion. However the beauty and the aesthetic message that the door carry with themselves have ensured that they will never become obsolete.

Tags:- About Door Knocker, History Of Door Knocker, Information About Door Knocker

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