Old antique iron piece

[klevelandrocks]

I'm fairly certain I purchased this at a garage sale in the early 1980s  I don't know anything about it, what it is what it's age is, it's origin, etc.  It's an iron piece as can be seen by the rust, with an almost 'gargoyle-like' grotesque lion as it's main subject.   It was obviously attached to something, but not sure what.  It looks incredibly old.  Any help appreciated.  Thanks!

[leesantiques]

Looks like the moving part of an old door knocker to me.  Great find!

Lee