Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Masonic Master Mason Apron
1797
Thomas Bluget de Valdenuit (1763-1846)
USA: New York
Ink on leather; silk
overall: 16-1/4"h x 14-1/2"w
Special Acquisitions Fund
75.23.3

Printed leather Masonic Master Mason apron with rectangular body and rounded flap; inscription on flap: "Amor Virtus Charitas"; outline printed on the body in a shield shape, columns, pavement, cord and tassels; altar and working tools; inscribed "Valedenuit, New York" on lower front; inscribed on back "Josiah Sherman, Albany, New York, 1797, H. Roger Sherman of Lawrence, Long Island his grandson 1897"; remains of faded, silk edging.

Many apron makers found inspiration for their work in printed certificates, book illustrations and other aprons. This apron, designed and engraved by a French craftsman who worked in Baltimore and New York, provided the model for at least one embroidered apron.