Set of Two Matching Brass Door Handles, by Tula hardware masters I. Subbotin and M. Zafren, late XIX - early XX century.
Judging by the handles leaning in the opposite directions, this is a set of matching handles for one double-sided entrance door, most likely to a building or, perhaps, to a grand hall. The escutcheon is 10 ½" x 1 ¾", in thin brass sheet over a ¼"-thick steel plate. The solid brass cylindrical handle is 5" long x ¾" in diameter. The handles are designed for vertical positioning and feature a simple but ingenious sliding keyhole cover.
The handles are maker marked at the tip of the escutcheons. The trademark medallion is that of the Factory of the Imperial Russian Technical Society of I.S. Subbotin and M.I. Zafren, a hardware manufacturing company of two of the best hardware masters in Tula, the city world-famous for its production of metal hardware from window latches and door handles to samovars and weapons.
In excellent condition. The brass shows light patina and an occasional spot of verdigris. The steel plate of the escutcheon was coated in black protective paint, most of which is still in place which explains minimal and superficial rust on the metal. The nuts holding the handles are rusted all over their surface but the rust is also superficial: clean metal is visible in multiple places. The sliding keyhole cover is in perfect working order.
To put these handles in historical perspective, the absolute majority of hardware for windows, doors, chests, barns, drawers, furniture, pianos, handbags, suitcases, etc., etc., was manufactured in the city of Tula in Imperial Russia, and was sold all over the immense territory of the Russian Empire.
Item# 42872
$280.00 Add to cart