A Meeting of Freemasons for the Reception of Apprentices

A Meeting of Freemasons for the Reception of Apprentices

This London-made print shows a Masonic meeting. Publishers printed it as part of a series based on a group of French engravings produced in the mid-1700s. By illustrating the inner workings of meetings and rituals, publishers sought to reveal the secrets of Freemasonry. In this image, the lodge Master commands the only seat in the room, a round-backed side chair like the one displayed nearby. Under the Master’s eye, meeting attendees examine a tracing board rolled out on the floor.

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Special Acquisition Fund, 77.10.1a.

Thomas Palser (active 1799-1843), London, England

1809