17th Century Italian Cast Iron Figural Knob depicting a boy with wavy hair dressed in a tunic that leaves one shoulder uncovered. Made of cast iron. has a dark patina and is in good condition. Of Italian provenance it dates from the 17th century. This antique iron knob in the shape of a human head was used as a handle in period furniture and was originally used as a chest of drawers knob, attached to the front of the drawer thanks to a threaded bar placed inside.