Quantity selected exceeds current stock
Hands have been a popular motif throughout time in many different cultures. Travel the world and you may notice hand-shaped door knockers in many different countries. It is thought these door knockers originally represented the Hand of Fatima (the daughter of Mohammed) or Hamsa, a symbol that offered protection against the evil eye. However, the Jewish faith also use the Hamsa and is a symbol of the hand of God reaching down from the heavens. The hand has become a symbol of luck and good faith and is often seen in jewelry, housewares and architectural elements.
It is not surprising the Victorians have adopted the hand door knocker. After all, "severed" hands were a popular motif in Victorian life. With the popularity of travel in the 1700 and 1800s, it is no doubt this door knocker motif was brought back to Europe from the Middle East and regions along the Mediterranean. Many of these old door knocker molds were still used into the 20th century and were offered for sale in foundry catalogs.
This door knocker is made out of a heavy bronze with a thin brass plate. The hand is trimmed with a lacy cuff and is delicately holding a ball. The hand is attached to a square plate with a hole for a bolt to be attached. While traditionally this door knocker would be placed on the front door, it also makes a wonderful sculptural piece for your curio cabinet.
Additional Details
Date: 1920s-1960s
Materials: Bronze, Brass
Measurements: 5 1/2" x 2 3/8"
Markings: None
Condition: Good
There is verdigris throughout the piece, primarily on the thumb.
We decided not to remove it in order to maintain its patina and not to remove the brass plating. Some of the brass plating has come off on the top of the hand, not very noticeable. This piece has overall wear from its age and being used outside.
