The introduction of the doorbell signaled the end of the need for a door knocker. Today these items are more decorative, albeit still functional, than a necessity.
Door knockers were most commonly used during the 17th and 18th centuries but evidence of door knockers has been found as far back as ancient Greek times. While the early examples of door accessories were simple and functional in design, as time went on they became a popular accessory and were soon to be found on homes of the wealthy and elite. Popular motifs such as a family coat of arms, religious symbols or a representation of the family’s business were featured. However, with the advent of the metal foundry and the ability to create multiples of a design, it soon became possible for the middle class to afford and feature these symbols available, up to this point, to only the privileged and wealthy.
In today’s market there is an unlimited selection of door knocker designs and styles. Many homeowners prefer to honor the period and architectural style of their home’s exterior and select a door knocker in keeping with that era. Black wrought iron on a Spanish colonial or stainless steel on a sleek contemporary building are just a few examples of style and finishes appropriate for specific architectural styles. Others, however, enjoy adding a bit of personality to their front door by selecting humorous or personalized door hardware and still others prefer to exhibit their love of a particular animal, sport, flower or hobby by choosing appropriate door knockers. This beautifully detailed woodpecker door knocker would be appropriate on any style door and instantly becomes a piece of treasured functional art for your home’s front entry.
Door knockers were most commonly used during the 17th and 18th centuries but evidence of door knockers has been found as far back as ancient Greek times. While the early examples of door accessories were simple and functional in design, as time went on they became a popular accessory and were soon to be found on homes of the wealthy and elite. Popular motifs such as a family coat of arms, religious symbols or a representation of the family’s business were featured. However, with the advent of the metal foundry and the ability to create multiples of a design, it soon became possible for the middle class to afford and feature these symbols available, up to this point, to only the privileged and wealthy.
In today’s market there is an unlimited selection of door knocker designs and styles. Many homeowners prefer to honor the period and architectural style of their home’s exterior and select a door knocker in keeping with that era. Black wrought iron on a Spanish colonial or stainless steel on a sleek contemporary building are just a few examples of style and finishes appropriate for specific architectural styles. Others, however, enjoy adding a bit of personality to their front door by selecting humorous or personalized door hardware and still others prefer to exhibit their love of a particular animal, sport, flower or hobby by choosing appropriate door knockers. This beautifully detailed woodpecker door knocker would be appropriate on any style door and instantly becomes a piece of treasured functional art for your home’s front entry.
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| Woodpecker on bark |
In today’s market there are a myriad of finishes to choose from. It is possible to match your doorknocker with other door hardware including door handle and locks or you may elect to complement the existing hardware by choosing a different finish for the door knocker. Options might include an oil-rubbed bronze knocker paired with brass door handles or stainless steel placed next to black wrought iron door hardware.
Whatever door knocker style you choose- traditional, whimsical, transitional or contemporary- it will, no doubt, add interest and personality to the entry of your home or business. Such attention to the exterior of your home will surely make visitors excited to see what is waiting for them behind the front door.
Whatever door knocker style you choose- traditional, whimsical, transitional or contemporary- it will, no doubt, add interest and personality to the entry of your home or business. Such attention to the exterior of your home will surely make visitors excited to see what is waiting for them behind the front door.
