The book, Striking Figures, is a compilation of over 200 antique wrought iron, bronze and brass figurative door knockers spanning the last 400 years. The origins are explored and detailed information is listed for each piece, including size, country of origin, provenance and estimated age. The text is complemented with over 500 photographs, large and small. The forward is written by Tom Latan, master metalsmith. Door knockers are enduring examples of applied art, dating back to antiquity and affirming the human need for adornment and meaning in everyday objects and demonstrating that both art and function can coexist in harmony. In today's busy world there is often little time to stop and consider the aesthetic in little quotidian objects. This book offers such an opportunity.These small, but alluring sculptural objects, are enticing to see and touch and reflect an artistic range from delightful folk art motifs to masterpieces of technical virtuosity and visual pleasure.