Rare Antique 18th Century Lever Arm Door Handle Latch With Collection Of Apotropaic Or ‘Witches Marks’
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A Fascinating Antique 18th Century Lever Arm Door Handle Latch With, What Are Believed To Be, A Collection Of Apotropaic Or ‘Witches Marks’. There Are Three Marks, All Of Which Are In The Form Of A Hex Sign With Four Dots.
The reality of supernatural evil was almost universally acknowledged from the 16th century and continued, in some form, up to the 19th century. Demons, evil spirits and witches were genuinely believed to be stalking the land, intent on wickedness.
An extension of these fears was that people sought to ward away the threat of evil from their property. One of the ways they would do this was by carving protective symbols, as graffiti, into the structure’s fabric.
It was thought that evil spirits entered structures on free-flowing air. And, as such, doors, windows and fireplaces were considered particularly vulnerable portals.
This particular piece is likely to have been on a barn door, with the markings used to protect the animals housed inside.
A fascinating piece of social history!
Condition is good, commensurate with age and use. Structurally sound and functions well. All parts appear to be present.