Objects

Masonic Entered Apprentice Apron
1785-95
Maker not marked
Place made not marked
Ink and wash on leather
overall: 20-1/2"h x 26-1/2"w
Loaned by the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts
GL2004.1041

Shield-shaped white leather Masonic Apron; missing border; flap cut to display up. Apron design shows four step platform with pillars left and right and three candle stands in center; above is open Bible with square above compasses in Entered Apprentice position. Above Bible is five-pointed star with "G". Below platform is coffin with acacia. Written on back in ink: "541-2".


From In Barbara Franco, "Bespangled, Painted and Embroidered," page 44. The shape of this apron closely approcimates early aprons made from an entire animal skin. The flap is formed by the shape of the leather rather than by a separately applied piece. The design includes columns, Bible, "G" within a star, coffin, square, and compasses. Like most early aprons the square and compasses are prominent inthe design and only a few other Masonic symbols are used.



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