sought after and highly collectible ornamental cast brass "geisha girl" figural doorknob. manufactured in the early 1880's by the russell & erwin hardware co. the knob has a patent date of 1879 along the shank in addition to the maker markings on the backside of the knob. the drum-shaped knob is deeply recessed with a beaded border along the edge. the geisha girl is backed by a detailed parasol with the handle positioned in her right hand. russell and erwin created a short-lived "suite" of hardware incorporating several japanese motifs, reflecting the popularity of anglo-japanese design during the 1880's. this knob is highly prized by any collector today. the knob was used on a passage door. the casting details remains clear and crisp.