Porches and entrances help define the architectural style of a structure. The porch functions as a transitional gathering place, however the focal point of the entry way is the door and the focal point of the door is the doorknocker. Since inception early in the world's history, the doorknocker has evolved from merely a functional component of the home to a decorative element with essential characteristics crucial to architectural style. The history of doorknockers is in essence unwritten, and little is known concerning the makers who rarely marked their work.