The history of door furniture is a lot more interesting than you may think. For example, it may surprise you to learn that the first documented invention of door knobs, as we know them, was in 1878 by a man called Osbourn Dorsey. It is even more surprising considering door knobs have been in use since the building and decorating of momentous Egyptian tombs, which contain paintings that clearly show wooden doors and knobs in use.
The History Of Door Knobs
For long periods of time after the Egyptians, doors were rarely used. Instead, simple archways would be used as a doorway, without the option for any kind of individuality or real segmentation of rooms. Curtains were rarely hung across archways to offer a kind of privacy.
It wasn’t really until the 1500’s that rooms designed for specific purposes began to come into popularity. Being able to boast a wooden door, with hand-forged hinges holding it in place, was something to be proud of. It was also during this period that latches began to come into fashion, providing the first glimpses of privacy into a relatively open world.
Metallic latches and hinges would have been expensive to make, and would have been a clear indicator of the owner’s wealth. With the introduction of latches, wooden and, occasionally, brass knobs would be used to operate these rudimentary locks.
It wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that advances in technology enabled the mass production of door knobs, both metallic and wooden. They became cheaper and much more widely available and were often thought of as a stylish feature to compliment a room’s decoration. Since then, knobs have been made from wood, brass, chrome, ceramics and porcelain, nickel, glass and crystals and, very recently, stainless steel.
Though door furniture is often mainly a means of security, enabling a door to be locked or closed, their stylish design and the beautiful components are forever evolving to meet the latest fashions. From minimalist door knobs to intricate and Victorian-esque back plates, knobs are one of the key features which can be used to compliment a room’s design. A good door knob needs to be able to matchyour stylistic needs, whilst simultaneously offering you fantastic security.
Modern, Stylish, Traditional, Secure Door Knobs, From Handles4doors
Whatever style door knobs you’re after, you can be assured that Handles4doors can provide them. Whether you want a classic beehive or beaded handle, porcelain or glass handles for gorgeous additions to your favourite rooms, contemporary satinchrome knobs or timeless wooden door knobs, polished to a smooth sheen, at Handles4doors, we have what you’re looking for.
For more information, visit us, call us on 0125 278 6520 or email us at sales@handles4doors.co.uk to choose from our wide range of beautiful, safe door knobs.
