Important Masonic Apron

A fine and rare 17th / early 18th century masonic apron with hand embroidered silk and wool threads over a fine linen cloth with a gauze like weave. The 'Freemason Apron', for those unfamiliar, stands as a symbol for members of the Society of Freemasons, a fraternal organization which has regulated and overseen the qualifications of masons since the fourteenth century. Members are ranked into three categories, apprentice, journeymen and master mason, with the most elaborate aprons, like the one offered here, reserved for  master masons or 'third members'. The working tools of a master mason are the implements used in the trade of masonry, particularly the trowel, which is represented in lower right. Other symbols include a rainbow, a rooster, a pair of keys, a carpenter's scale, candelabrum, a chalice, a trumpet, a snake, a sword , an anchor and a clipper ship preceded by an inscription - John Loggie, Snt Thomas, (illegible) MXXXkiak N. 200. 

Professionally backed, stretched and mounted.

Dimensions: 31 inches vertical x 26.5 inches horizontal.

Condition notes: in good, original condition. Minor soiling

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