Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Pitcher with Masonic Symbols
ca. 1830
Maker not marked
England
Transfer-printed earthenware, paint
overall: 5"h x 5"w x 5-1/2"d (spout to handle)
Special Acquisitions Fund
77.3

Yellow creamware pitcher with Masonic symbols. Rust-colored underglazed transfer-printed design of a Freemason (lodge Master) seated on steps with a hand on a shield showing the Freemason's arms. The figure is flanked by pillars of unequal height. One side is inscribed, "Masonry, / Friendship and / Love," inside a wreath of leaves and Masonic symbols (square and compasses on open book; star with G; sun and moon). Black trim around rim, bottom edge, handle, and on neck.

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. For further information, see Hamilton, John D., "Material Culture of the American Freemasons," 1994, p. 223, 279.