Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Masonic Plate with Freemasons' Arms
1820-30
Maker not researched
England
Transfer-printed ceramic
overall: 3/4 x 6 in.; 1.905 x 15.24 cm
Special Acquisitions Fund
80.7.5

Masonic Plate; ceramic; molded gaudy flowers and molded swag design on rim; central design of transfer-print design with overpaint; design includes man with two columns with globes on top, shield, lights, crecent moon with seven stars, sun, beehive, square and compasses on Bible; above design reads "FREE MASONS ARMS"; overpainted in red/ brown, green, yellow; red/ brown striping on rim.

Brightly decorated ceramic objects such as this, that also bear prints of different Masonic scenes, were likely used by individuals in their homes. In the early 1800s, some gift-givers selected ornamented ceramic pitchers as appropriate presentations for special events, such as a wedding.