c. 1900's original and intact ornamented cast iron "magnolia" pattern residential passage door backplate or escutcheon designed and fabricated by the penn hardware company, reading, pa. the single doorknob backplate contains a uniform brushed metal surface darkened with an oil-rubbed metallic bronze enameled finish. the fluted or grooved cast iron thimble is free from damage. measures approximately 5 x 1 1/2 inches.