Door knocker in the shape of a salamander 15th or 16th century Spanish The later Middle Ages was practically a second Iron Age, producing vast quantities of armor, weaponry and all manner of functional objects from nails to elaborate strap work hinges, ornate locks and household tools. A highly specialized craft, the best ironsmiths took pride in bringing decorative refinement to their works often elaborating surfaces that could not be seen and transfiguring the functional into the figural. These door knockers are fine examples of the wit, humor, and skill the best ironsmiths could bring to their products.This door knocker is in the shape of a salamander with a long flat body, a pointed head, a lowered tail curled upwards all supported on four short legs. The surface is chiseled with wavy lines and short parallel curves indicating the animal's rough skin.. Door knocker in the shape of a salamander. Spanish. 15th or 16th century. Wrought iron. Metalwork-Iron