ER Butler

Profile

The wares in this fixtures showroom run the gamut from simple bronze handles to decorative brass pigs, with a collection of glass doorknobs in between. E.R. Butler specializes in larger-scale projects, equipping a residence, hotel, or business with specified hardware, made-to-order fixtures, and floor plans (past clients include the Frick and the Tweed Courthouse).The company can also refer to clients to furniture-making partners. But the showroom also offers individual pieces—a recent client was a scientist purchasing an amber doorknob for his lab. Among the most popular items are tarnished brass handles from W.C. Vaughn, a company established in 1902. All of the products begin as brass, and some are silver-plated and detailed by hand or plated in gold and antiqued. Cabinet knobs begin at $75, plus finishing (polished and plated), and doorknobs begin at $50. Engraving costs extra, but who could pass up a hand-engraved lion’s-head door knocker? — Mike Vilensky