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Masonic Master Mason Apron
1815-1845
Maker not marked
China
Silk on silk
overall: 14-1/2"h x 18"w
Gift of John M. Bachulus
82.11

Masonic Master Mason apron with square body and square flap; all-seeing eye embroidered on flap; central design embroidered with columns, "G" with figures of Faith, Hope and Charity; other Masonic symbols include columns with globes, sun, moon, ark, anchor, ladder, beehive, ashlars, hourglass, Bible, Euclid's 47th problem, coffin; simulated lettering embroidered on bottom; embroidery done in blue, pink, metallic, green, yellow, black.


At first glance, this apron appears to be on printed from a plate engraved by James Porter of Middletown, Connecticut. A closer look shows that the apron is not printed, but embroidered. As well, the "lettering" along the bottom is formed out of illegible characters. This silk apron was likely a custom order produced in China. In making aprons and other objects decorated with Masonic symbols, Chinese craftsman relied on readily portable objects, like aprons, as design models. For further information, see Newell, Aimee E., "The Badge of a Freemason," 2015. p.100-101 AND see Bespangleld, Painted and Embroidered; Decorated Masonic Aprons in America 1790-1850 (MNH, 1980) item 55.



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