Oval and plate handles became popular towards the end of the 18th century in styles of furniture promoted by Hepplewhite in his design guide. With their classical flavor, the ring handles particularly remained popular through the Sheraton and Empire period of the early 19th century.

Most of these handles were set on an oval medallion like backplate though round, octagonal and other shapes were also produced. The backplates took advantage of the fine detail possible when thin brass sheet is pressed between dies and tableaus of patriotic, classical, romantic or floral nature usually adorn these handles. The typical oval plate handle has a slender "D" shaped cast bail draped between posts at each side of the plate. The posts were either plain and round or run shaped with a turned detail cut into their face.