original 19th century antique american ornamental cast bronze interior or exterior residential doorknob backplate. manufactured around 1880-85 by the russell & erwin mfg. co., new britain, ct. the oversized backplate was likely salvaged from a stately residence. retains the original decorative swinging keyhole cover. incised ornament featuring palmettes foliated scroll work, leafage, etc. mostly uniform surface patina. measures approximately 7 1/4 x 2 1/2 inches.