16th C. European Bronze Door Knocker - Dragons - Dec 07, 2015 | Artemis Gallery In Co
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16th C. European Bronze Door Knocker - Dragons

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16th C. European Bronze Door Knocker - Dragons
16th C. European Bronze Door Knocker - Dragons
Item Details
Description
Europe, Iberian Peninsula, Portugal, ca. 16th century CE. A large and impressive cast bronze door knocker, with an intricate composition depicting (from top to bottom) a pair of intertwining serpents above two winged dragons, their heads and bodies in profile, perched upon the handle. Both dragons are delineated with stippled bodies and outspread detailed wings. The serpents are equally striking with their long sinuous bodies with stylized diamond patterned skins. At the bottom, the handle is adorned with an oval shaped medallion incised with a diagonal stripe that is framed by four bifurcated projecting termini, this design perhaps representing a family or royal crest. Coca is the legendary female dragon of Portuguese mythology who according to legend fiercely battled Saint George on the Corpus Christi holiday. This conflict is layered with symbolic meaning. As the legend goes, when coca defeated Saint George, the people's crops would be poor resulting in extreme famine and death. However, when Saint George was victorious and cut off coca's head, tongue, and ears with his mighty sword, the harvest would be plentiful and in turn signify general prosperity. This said, the dragon has traditionally been revered by the Portuguese people who cheer for her during the Festa da Coca (celebration of Corpus Christi). Drago is another term for the Portuguese dragon represented in medieval mythology and illuminated manuscripts. The serpents above may refer to the Catalan version of the dragon which assumes the form of an enormous serpent. This is an incredibly rare piece of fine artistry, magical iconography, and superb condition! Just imagine the opulent door for which this knocker was originally created! Size: 17" x 10-1/2" x 5" (43.2 x 26.7 x 12.7 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Sarkisian Estate, Denver CO.

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#111106
Condition
Intact and choice. Gorgeous deep patina!
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16th C. European Bronze Door Knocker - Dragons

Estimate $3,000 - $6,000
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Starting Price $1,500
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Artemis Gallery

Artemis Gallery

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