Finger Plates

Image source

The finger plate is "a plate that is fixed to a door near the handle or keyhole. It can be made of metal, plastic, ceramic or glass. It purpose is to prevent people's fingers from smudging the door." (Wikipedia)

But its artistic value is so much more than just its practical application.

Art Nouveau fingerplate

Gothic fingerplate

From Flickr...a period example.

Figural plate

Thistle plate

The finger plate in context

Voysey inspired Arts & Crafts plate