Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Punch Bowl with Masonic Symbols
1790-1830
Maker not marked
China
Enamels on porcelain
overall: 4-5/8"h x 11-5/8"dia.
Loaned by the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts
GL2004.2566

Masonic white porcelain punch bowl; blue band around rim with grape pattern; inside bowl are sun, moon, stars, columns, checkered floor, etc. On outside are additional symbols of beehives, square, compasses, plumb, level, table, etc. On bottom is sticker "Massons / 22".

During the 1700s and early 1800s, lodge meetings often included refreshments. This bowl was probably used to serve punch. Imported from China, its decorations include several common Masonic symbols, such as columns, square and compasses, and beehives. These symbols were likely copied from Masonic documents, such as a membership certificate or summons. For further information, see Newell, Aimee, et.al., "Curiosities of the Craft: Treasures from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts Collection", 2013, p. 182-183.