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Masonic Master Mason Apron
1820
John Meer Sr. (probably 1756-1834)
USA: Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
Paint on silk, linen
overall: 18-1/2"h x 16-7/8"w x 1/8"d
Museum Purchase
2014.033.12

Masonic Master Mason apron with rectangular white silk body and flap. Flap is painted with a sun and clouds. Painted on the body are three steps to a mosaic pavement. At each side of the steps is a group of Masonic tools in gold including a maul, a coiffin, a plumb, a key and a quill. Three gold columns stand on the pavement. One column is marked W and a second is marked S. At center is an open Bible with text visible, "In the beginning was the word..." A square and compasses lie on top of the book. Between the columns is a pair of hands with fingers stretched up. Stamped in black under the flap is "Meer / Philada. / 5820." The flap and body are bound with light blue silk ribbon (hand stitched). Backing is cream linen.


Among the Masonic symbols on this apron, the two upward-facing hands are most distinctive. They may be a symbol of the five points of fellowship that help teach Masons the virtue of brotherly love. The Philadelphia painter who marked this work, John Meer, is thought to be the father of another John Meer (dates unknown). Born in England, the older Meer immigrated to Pennsylvania where he earned his living as an artist and engraver. He joined Montgomery Lodge No. 19 in 1807. For further information, see Newell, Aimee E., "The Badge of a Freemason," 2015, p. 116-118.



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