knocker

A knocker is a device attached to a door, typically made of metal, used to make a sound to attract the attention of those inside the house. Knockers have been in use for centuries and come in a wide variety of designs, from simple rings to elaborate sculpted figures. The most common type of knocker consists of a hinged piece of metal that is lifted and allowed to fall against a plate affixed to the door. This action produces a percussive sound. Variations exist, such as ball knockers, where a spherical object is swung against a plate, or lion head knockers, which often feature a ring held in the mouth of a decorative lion head. The placement of a knocker is usually on the exterior of a door, at a height convenient for a person standing on the doorstep. Historically, the presence and design of a knocker could also serve as a status symbol for the household. While doorbells and intercom systems have become more prevalent, traditional knockers remain a common feature on many doors, appreciated for their aesthetic appeal and simple functionality.