ADCA Visual Hardware Archive
Preserving the legacy of architectural hardware. Explore our curated archive of antique doorknobs grouped by shape, pattern, and origin.
Welcome
Welcome to the definitive archive of nearly 3,000 antique doorknobs, expanding on Len Blumin’s landmark 1983 classification system. This digital resource provides collectors and homeowners with high-resolution color photographs and detailed manufacturer data for hardware ranging from the Victorian era to the modern day.
Alphabetical Classification
As in Victorian Decorative Art, the doorknobs are grouped by shape and pattern. Select a classification below to view detailed varieties.
Table of Contents
The letter classifications below group doorknobs by the pattern of the knob. Groups C and N are based upon the actual shape of the knob, while the others generally are the design pattern on the face of the knob. Materials such as Wood, Composites, Glass and Porcelain/Minerals (coming soon) are also grouped together.
Click on the Picture below to visit that page or use the list of letters which correspond with each classification in the Menu.
Odd Shaped Knobs
Not round or oval knobs which are most common. Include hexagonal, curvaceous, rectangular, or unusual patterns.
EXPLORE CATEGORY C →
Field or Diaper Patterns
An overall pattern that does not fit into another description
EXPLORE CATEGORY D →
Radial Patterns
Pattern emanates from the center outward to the edge of the knob
EXPLORE CATEGORY L →
Concentric Patterns
Patterns form concentric circles from the center to the edge of the knob
EXPLORE CATEGORY M →
Emblematic & Fraternal
Designs representing various organizations and fraternal orders.
EXPLORE CATEGORY O →
Public Buildings/Seals
Customized for government buildings, companies, and organizations.
EXPLORE CATEGORY P →
Enameled Hardware
Examples of hardware which have been enamel decoration has been added.
EXPLORE CATEGORY S →
Acknowledgements
This site is only possible through the support of the many members of the Antique Doorknob Collectors of America. They have opened their collections, brought knobs to conventions, and allowed their knobs to be photographed and have been the source of much information. The site is built on the work of Dr. Len Blumin, who wrote and created the original edition of Victorian Decorative Art, and Win Applegate, who compiled and edited the two subsequent editions.
Numerous people have given access to the doorknobs shown on this site to be photographed. Others including Don Pearson, invited me into their homes. Norman Kanis at Architectural Antiques of Indianapolis gave free access to his store. Paul Woodfin and Mike Smith helped Steve Hannum to photograph the many doorknobs on this website. Developing a website, creating the many pages herein, and loading photographs has been a learning experience for your editorial staff, but as career educators we have enjoyed building this site for your use.
Steve Hannum, Editor