Mason's Apron

Currently not on view

Mason's Apron

Late 18th to mid- 19th century

Artist/maker unknown, American

Freemasonry, the world's oldest and largest fraternal order, communicates moral lessons through allegorical ritual. The distinguishing badge of a Mason is the apron given upon initiation, which serves as a reminder of his affiliation and duties; it also references the protective gear of a working mason, with a real or suggested flap at the top. While varied in shape and decoration, the apron is made out of white lambskin or leather—a sign of purity—and may feature some of the many symbols important to the group, such as a compass and square, the columns of King Solomon's Temple, and the all-seeing eye.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Mason's Apron

Date:

Late 18th to mid- 19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, American

Medium:

Painted leather (calfskin), blue silk plain weave ribbon

Dimensions:

18 x 17 1/2 inches (45.7 x 44.5 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth W. Dougherty in memory of Elizabeth Sutro Bendiner, 1991

Accession Number:

1991-75-33

Geography:

Made in United States, North and Central America

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Currently not on view