unique eastlake style c. 1870's cast bronze "criss-cross" pattern t-handle bell operator with backplate. this metal lever would be mounted on the outside of a door and works with antique doorbell mechanisms, in which a small bell installed inside the house is activated by a visitor pulling a lever, chain, or string to ring the bell. the cast metal backplate has a small piece cut from the corner and the copper plating and black enameled inlay is worn. the minimal design features simple geometric and floral patterning in relief. this type of lever operated bell predates the similar twist doorbell, where a handle is turned like a key to produce a rapid trill as a tiny hammer or clapper strikes the bell. these relatively crude doorbells were sometimes very ornate, and were often used in retail and small shops as well as residential settings. the t-handle door bell lever was designed and fabricated by the p. & f. corbin company, new britain, ct.