Cast Iron Doorstop Of A Cat - Circa 1910s
Don't let the door bang!
A charming and practical piece of furniture designed to prevent doors from slamming, this item could also have been displayed as a decorative fireside ornament believed to ward off evil spirits.
This early 1900s cast iron doorstop features original maker’s marks and numbers, along with its distinctive glass eyes, a painted red ribbon, and red lips. Well-proportioned, heavy, and whimsical, the craftsmanship is exceptional, with fine casting details.
It likely spent many decades in someone’s home, cherished and admired by generations of children who couldn’t resist petting and stroking it as they passed by.
Stamped: Nestor Rgd Design 767012. Signed by Harry Banks, though some details are difficult to make out.
Black cats have a rich and varied history in folklore, often associated with both good and bad luck depending on the cultural context.
In European Folklore (Medieval and Early Modern Times):
- Bad Luck and Witches: In much of medieval Europe, black cats were believed to be associated with witches and evil spirits. They were thought to be witches' familiars or even shape-shifting witches themselves. This negative association, especially during the witch trials of the 16th and 17th centuries, led to widespread fear and persecution of black cats.
- Superstitions of Ill Omen: In some cultures, particularly in Western Europe, a black cat crossing your path was considered a bad omen, possibly foretelling misfortune or even death.
In British and Irish Traditions:
- Good Luck: Interestingly, in some parts of the United Kingdom, black cats were seen as symbols of good fortune. For example, in English and Irish traditions, having a black cat in the house or seeing one on your travels could bring good luck.
- Sailors’ Superstition: British sailors often considered black cats to be lucky, and they were sometimes kept aboard ships to ensure safe passage. Sailors' families also believed that having a black cat at home would protect their loved ones at sea.
In Ancient Egypt:
- Sacred Animals: Cats, including black ones, were revered in ancient Egypt. They were associated with the goddess Bastet, the goddess of home, fertility, and domesticity. Killing a cat, black or otherwise, was punishable by death.
In Japanese Culture:
- Good Luck and Prosperity: In Japan, black cats are often viewed as symbols of good luck, particularly for single women. It is believed that a black cat can attract good suitors and protect against evil spirits.
Modern Superstitions:
- Mixed Beliefs: In the modern world, the perception of black cats is still mixed. Some people associate them with bad luck (particularly on Halloween), while others see them as symbols of mystery, elegance, or even protectors from evil. In many Western countries, black cats are often the least adopted from shelters due to lingering negative associations.
- Good Fortune in Some Regions: In some parts of the world today, a black cat entering your home or crossing your path can be seen as a sign of prosperity and good fortune.
In the United States:
- Halloween Symbol: In America, black cats are a common symbol of Halloween, often associated with witches, haunted houses, and the supernatural. This is partly influenced by their historical connection to European witchcraft.
The beliefs surrounding black cats in homes are deeply rooted in cultural histories, but their reputation varies widely from place to place. While some traditions view them as ominous, many others celebrate their presence as a sign of good fortune and protection.
But hey, who doesn't like a story its always fascinating to hear.
