Big Knockers !

Everywhere you look in Paris you see big knockers - usually pairs of big knockers but before your blood pressure gets totally unruly, I'm talking about those found on doors !

There are rows and rows of façades facing every street, regularly punctuated by pairs of enormous doors. Who knows what lies behind them - (often, quite gorgeous residential plazas - photos to follow). This collection concerns the means of entry, however ....

This one is real oak unlike the 'scumble' finish of many. The knocker isn't the original. The lock(s) are not original but the well worn grooved arc in the middle right probably is original



Serpents are a popular motif and can be found everywhere - but you don't realise what you are looking at on occasion. This real oak door has been scumbled as well as varnished just to make a Gallic point



The lion takes pride of place (unintended pun) but again, there is a serpent



And some more serpents (on a really nasty, scumbled, 'faux-oakx' finish!)



and if that isn't in bad taste, try this one:

It's as well that French letters are indeed small as this brightly finished orifice will scarcely accept a 'billet-doux'



And the bad taste doesn't end there
You might like it - I think it is hideous



And spare a thought for all the Parisian painters who have to keep this lot in (sort of) good order, even if it is a one-coat marvel



YOUR views and comments are welcomed .....

A really very impressive set of knobs and knockers, lovely patina on the 2nd and 3rd one. They do seem to like polishing their (bits)
Nice take and observations.
Derek

Like this set. Well seen and taken

Well shot, sharp and textured. A good subject and they work well as a series.