These sculptural bronze pieces offer a high level
of detail and beauty capturing the individual
characteristics of each breed.
The DogKnocker, CatKnocker, and Paw Doorbell Ringer are
cast in solid bronze, as this finish most often matches
door hardware.
The mirrored finish is achieved through varying degrees
of sanding and buffing. This finish is often used to
highlight or accent the points or raised areas on a
piece.
Each knocker receives a baked polyurethane coating or a
statuary lacquer before leaving production. Similar to
the protective finish used on cars, these coatings
provide a shield against the elements.
All 16 breed pieces and coordinating paw doorbell ringer
are handcrafted using the age-old art of foundry
casting.
During this process, molten bronze is heated to over
2200ºF and then carefully poured into a handmade sand
mold. This mold can only be used only once, giving your
piece its individual character.
The knockers and ringer are treated with a dark patina,
then hand polished and coated with a clear lacquer to
protect its original finish.
In order to confirm authenticity and quality
craftsmanship, each knocker is signed by artist Michael
Healy.
Brass
and bronze are copper-based alloys. The yellow brass
alloy used in many of Michael's designs contains 70%
copper and produces a warm, traditional brass look. Red
bronze contains almost 85% copper.
This additional
copper content gives the bronze alloy its rich, reddish
undertone. The mirrored finish of polished brass and
polished bronze is achieved through varying degrees of
sanding and buffing.
Michael uses these techniques to
highlight or accent the raised areas on a piece.
Tender Loving Care
Your Door Knocker can be maintained for years of use and
enjoyment provided that some basic care and attention is
given to its preservation. Be sure to minimize or
eliminate conditions that can cause damage.
The knockers have been coated with a baked catalyzed
polyurethane, similar to the clear
top coat on an automobile. Occasionally
wash it using a sponge with water and a mild
soap to help maintain the vibrant shine.
Coating it with
a paste wax will also greatly extend the life of the
finish. Do not use a brass cleaner or an abrasive pad;
this will damage the clear coating and the original
polished finish.
Michael Healy Designs only uses metal
constituted primarily of scrap
that is recycled into virgin ingot.
The natural clays
and sands used to make molds are reused over and over
and are completely non-toxic and environmentally
friendly.
They handle and dispose of wastes through safe,
environmentally responsible methods, and use
environmentally friendly alloys which are always
recycled.
These bronze door knockers
are priced at $110, and the doorbell ringer is $55.
These items ship separately, directly from the
manufacturer. Please allow for a 2 week
delivery time.
Attaching your Door
Knocker (click here for short
installation video)
- Hold Knocker in desired position on your door and mark hole
locations with pencil.
- Drill guide holes using a 1/8 inch drill bit.
Screws accept Phillip’s head screwdriver. You don't need to drill
through entire door to install. Each knocker comes with 2 machine screws
designed for surface mounting on both metal and wood doors.
- Some designs require body of Knocker be removed before mounting bracket
can be attached.
- Screw mounting bracket into desired position. If required, re-attach body
of Knocker to mounting bracket. (Each Knocker has mounting bracket and striker plate
that attach to door. The face of knocker lifts and hits against the
plate.)