Scalloped Brass Drop Pull Handle Appraisal

Scalloped Brass Drop Pull Handle

This item is a vintage or antique brass drop pull handle, likely used on furniture such as dressers, cabinets, or chests. It consists of two primary components: a backplate and a movable bail handle. The backplate is distinctly scalloped or floral-shaped, featuring approximately eight rounded lobes around its perimeter, giving it an ornate character. Its color is a dark, aged brass with a significant, uneven patina, exhibiting greenish-brown and darker brown tones, indicative of oxidation over time. There is a single, visible screw hole centered towards the top of the backplate, suggesting it was originally mounted with a single screw, allowing the backplate to pivot slightly if not further secured. The bail handle is a simple, 'U' or 'D' shaped loop, also made of brass, attached to the backplate at two points on either side. The handle itself shows wear and areas where the brass is slightly brighter due to frequent touching, indicating its function as an active pull. The construction appears sturdy, suggesting a cast or forged brass piece rather than thin stamped metal, which contributes to its perceived quality. There are no visible maker's marks or specific decorative embellishments beyond the shape of the backplate. The overall aesthetic points to a late 19th or early 20th-century design, popular during periods when brass hardware was prevalent.