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A Masonic Anecdote, pub. 1786 (hand coloured engraving)
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A Masonic Anecdote, pub. 1786 (hand coloured engraving)
3035660 A Masonic Anecdote, pub. 1786 (hand coloured engraving) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Private Collection; The Stapleton Collection; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23428586
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Aprons Beehive Candle Freemason Freemasonry Freemasons Glasses Lodge Mason Masonic Masonic Symbols Masonry Punchbowl Secret Society Jewels Symbols
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This hand-coloured engraving, titled "A Masonic Anecdote" takes us back to the year 1786, offering a glimpse into the secretive world of Freemasonry. Created by James Gillray, this artwork is part of The Stapleton Collection and currently resides in a private collection. The image depicts an interior scene during a lodge meeting, filled with intriguing masonic symbols and rituals. The room is adorned with various tools and objects that hold significant meaning within the fraternity. A beehive symbolizes industry and cooperation while aprons represent the purity of intentions. These symbols serve as reminders of the values upheld by Freemasons. In this cartoon-like depiction, we witness a group of freemasons engaged in their mysterious activities. They gather around a punchbowl, sharing camaraderie amidst candlelit ambiance. Each member wears distinctive masonic aprons and jewel-adorned regalia denoting their rank within the order. While some may view this artwork as merely satirical or comical due to its caricature-like style, it offers valuable insights into English Freemasonry during that era. It also hints at connections between French and English lodges through subtle references. Overall, "A Masonic Anecdote" serves as both an artistic representation and historical documentation of one aspect of secret societies prevalent in 18th-century England. This print invites viewers to explore the enigmatic world behind closed doors where brotherhood thrived alongside secrecy and symbolism.
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