More information about the artist, materials, maintenance, and installation.

Michael Healy studied metal sculpture at the University of Notre Dame where he learned century-old bronze casting techniques. These techniques became the foundation for his identifiable artistic expression. The is well known for his ability to skillfully combine quality materials into artistic yet functional forms. He is particularly noted for his talent for turning an everyday object into a work of art. His most recognizable works are this series of unique Door Knockers and doorbell ringers. Michael Healy has sculpted over one hundred door knockers and doorbell ringers depiction homeowner’s interests such as gardening, outdoor life, the Southwest and seashore scenes. To ensure consistently high quality at all stages of the metal casting process, Michael Healy works from his own foundry in Rhode Island. Michael is assisted by a select group of talented artisans who hand craft each Door Knocker or Doorbell Ringer. This personal attention to detail guarantees that every door sculpture is truly special. Only then is it read to carry Michel Healy’s signature confirming its authenticity and quality craftsmanship.

“The element that makes my products so special and original is the individual craftsmanship that is put into each piece, say Michael Healy, “every one of my door knockers and doorbell ringers are created by human hands and personal artistry”

What is the difference between the metals?

All Michael Healy Door knockers are cast from Solid Brass, Bronze, Nickel Silver or a combination of these metals. Brass is an alloy containing 70% copper while bronze contains 85% copper. This additional copper makes bronze have a more reddish appearance. Nickel Silver has nickel added to the bronze making it a warm silver color. All these metals are ideal for outdoor use. Your selection should be based on you personal preference.

What is the difference between the finishes?

The most prevalent finish on brass is the polished finish. Varying degrees of sanding and buffing are employed to achieve the mirror finish most commonly seen on door knockers. When this technique is used to simply accent the points or raised areas on a piece it is often referred to as highlighted. Our oiled bronze finish is attained by dipping the raw castings in an dark patina solution then polishing the pieces to a satin finish. Successive dipping and highlighting is needed to achieve the rich , dark finish. Our brushed nickel finish is done by putting the raw nickel silver pieces through multiple processes until a fine satin finish is achieved. The polished chrome finish is done by buffing in a similar fashion as the typical polished finish in brass. We often combine the polished chrome finish with the brushed nickel finishes to produce a contemporary look. All our door knockers receive a final baked polyurethane coating that protects them from the elements.

Installation Instructions

To replace an existing doorbell, first turn off power to the doorbell and remove it to expose two thin wires. Screw backing plate to doorjamb with he wires coming through the large bottom hole of the plate. Attach one wire to each terminal on the button and push button into the baking plate. Attach the Doorbell Ringer to the backing plate using supplied hardware and return power to the doorbell. It’s that simple!