These door knockers, called 'Pu Shou' in Chinese, are composed of two main parts - the top is an image of the head of a mythical animal or a mythical bird, and below the head is a ring attached to the mouth of the animal/bird.

The earliest textual record of the term 'Pu Shou' is found in “Han Shu” (a history book covering the history of the Western Han period compiled in 111CE). Yan Shigu, a very well-known historian of the Tang dynasty, defines 'Pu Shou' as "a mythical head fixed on the door as a base for a ring to knock on a door".

Essentially the term 'Pu Shou' is embedded with lots of auspicious meanings including blessings and protection from evil elements. In addition to using 'Pu Shou' as door knockers, they are sometimes attached to a coffin.

Archaeological materials show that 'Pu Shou' were used in the pre Qin period and are regularly found in different archaeological sites. This particular pair of 'Pu Shou' is rare for its large size and generous  use of bronze. The upper section depicts the front of a mythical animal surrounded by curled patterns of clouds and its ears are portrayed as a pair of wings with bulging eyes. Below is a ring decorated with ridges. The pair is very well preserved. The pair's exceptional condition, large size and striking combination of decorative motifs make this a rare and excellent example of bronze door knockers.