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Masonic Chart of Symbols
1866
J. H. Bufford's Sons, lithographers; James T. Hill, publisher
USA: Massachusetts, Boston
Colored lithograph on paper
overall: 25-1/4"h x 19-3/4"w
Gift of Alan G. Wright
80.36

Lithograph depicts a variety of Masonic symbols and designs; at top, large building, before which is altar displaying open Bible with "Ecclesians Chap XXII" and groups of figures on either side; in distance, seashore with another group of figures and rainbow; second scene depicts stairs leading to heaven; on left, robed female figure, on right, George Washington as a Mason; third scene shows room interior decorated with sculpture and pictures; colors: red, yellow, green, grey; on bottom: "J.H. Buffords Sons, Lith., Boston, Entered According to Act of Congress in the year 1866 by James T. Hill in the Clerk's office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts."


Printers make chromolithographs, like this Masonic chart, using many different smooth, lithographic stones, each carrying a different ink color. This printing method resulted in colorful prints, quickly produced, with each print in an edition as bright as the first. Printers like J. H. Bufford’s Sons, who issued this work, published large editions of prints in the mid-1800s. Their products were sold all over the country. For further information, see Newell, Aimee E., "The Badge of a Freemason," 2015, p. 175.