Antique Brass Hand Door Knocker & Ball

This antique brass hand door knocker from Crete features a hand clasping a brass ball at its finger tips which is used to rap the striker. 

The cuff has an ornate, lace-like design, which suggests a late 18th–19th century stylistic influence.

The medallion above the wrist features a face motifs, a classical female profile — a neoclassical influence, which became popular in the early 19th century.

The hand holding a ball is a common symbol of hospitality and welcoming. Sometimes it’s interpreted as protection from the evil eye.

This door knocker is particularly useful for homeowners who cherish a blend of tradition and elegance in their home decor. It is ideal for those who are enthusiasts of vintage-style furnishings and wish to add a touch of historical charm to their modern living spaces. 

Size: L28 x W7cm (widest point)

This door knocker does not come with the striker.

Greece, and Athens in particular, played a pivotal role in the evolution of the modern door knocker. In Ancient Greece, affluent Athenians sought to prevent unannounced visits, a practice notably common among Spartans. To manage visitor arrivals, slaves were assigned to guard the entrance and announce guests. However, the tedium of this duty often led to slaves neglecting their responsibilities by sleeping or absconding. To counter this, a system was devised where slaves were chained to the doorframe with a large metal ring affixed to a robust backplate, restricting their movement. Visitors would alert the household by knocking on the metal ring or rattling the chain, marking the origin of the door knocker. This concept was subsequently adopted by the Romans and gradually spread. Over time, door knockers grew more intricate, often reflecting the identity or status of the homeowner through their design.

The design of the hand knocker is believed to be inspired by the Hand of Fatima, representing the daughter of the Prophet Mohammed, the founder of Islam. Known as the Hamsa, this symbol is reputed to provide protection and is embraced by multiple religious traditions. Although detailed historical records are scarce, it is reasonable to infer that the motif spread throughout the Mediterranean region from the Middle East and was subsequently adopted by the Ottomans, much like how culinary influences traveled and integrated across cultures.