pair of original c. 1880's antique american cast iron doorknob backplates or escutcheons made specifically to accommodate the niles "screwless spindle" doorknobs. the victorian era backplates are heavily adorned with abstract floral and geometric design motifs. fabricated by the chicago hardware co., chicago, il. intact fluted doorknob shank thimbles or collars. this type of backplate is often found with black porcelain doorknobs containing the specially made cast iron spindle. commonly found in the chicago area. priced for the pair. original copper-plated finish largely intact.