posted on September 12, 2005 06:18:18 PM new
Goodevening everyone ...best guess is this a butterfly shaped door knocker ? Its bottom plate measures almost 4 inches long and its 4-1/4 inches wide wing tip to wing tip. Also would you use the words Art Deco to describe it's look or maybe Shabby. The difference between cast iron and wrought iron is cast iron was made in a mold right (I know I'm hopeless)
posted on September 12, 2005 06:43:36 PM new
butterflies were a popular design motif in the Art Nouveau period (early 20th c., before Art Deco). some of the other design elements along the base also look more typical of early 20th c. wrought iron is hmmm...i'm tired...that's the stuff that is hand wrought by blacksmiths...yes, cast iron is made in molds.
if it turns out to be a door knocker, let me know, it might look good at my house.
posted on September 12, 2005 07:54:43 PM new
Thanks for the help Vintage ! Were pretty sure it's a door knocker ...I thought it was very pretty. Unique looking piece anyway.
posted on September 13, 2005 06:10:28 AM new
It does look like a transitional piece from Art Nouveau to Art Deco. Very cute - door knocker I believe.
But, there are some great reproductions out there of this piece, with old looking paint and all - so be careful. I have seen this butterfly and one with a bird motif selling as new for $5 each - they each had white worn paint.
I think by the look of the paint though, this is an older one - I love it.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Caroline
posted on September 13, 2005 08:51:22 AM new
Thanks Caroline ! I went and added Art Deco also with ?'s behind both lol better safe than sorry. I'd be willing to bet anyone that looks at it knows wayyyyyyyyyyyyy more than me
Caroline 