| Method | Copper engraving |
| Artist | I. F. after Louis Fabritius Dubourg |
| Published | c. 1735 |
| Dimensions | Image 322 x 405 mm, Sheet 328 x 405 mm |
| Notes |
A scarce illustrated list of the Lodges of the Free Masons produced as an illustration to Bernard Picart's Cérémonies et coutumesn religieuses de tous les peuples du monde published in 1735. At the top centre is a portrait of Sir Richard Steele as a bust, looking to the right, and wearing a cap. The portrait is surrounded by a large wall decorated with separate sheets for each of the 129 lodges, shown in six rows, each with a small illustrated tavern sign, name, and number. In front of the wall a ceremony of the Free Masons is taking place. The illustration is based on information supplied by the Masonic Lodge member, John Pine, a student of Bernard Picart, who was the leading illustrator to Picart's Cérémonies…. The inclusion of a portrait of Sir Richard Steele has been the subject of much speculative research ever since the print was published. No proof, however, has been found as to whether or not Steele was in fact a member of a Masonic Lodge. The only direct links that can be made between Freemasonry and Steele appear to be a couple of references made in articles he wrote for the Tatler newspaper, which he had co-founded. For example, from 1709: "You see these accost each other with effeminate airs, they have their signs and tokens like Freemasons". This may well have been the first ever mention of the Freemasons in the British press. Louis Fabritius Dubourg (1693-1775) was a Dutch artist and engraver. Active in Amsterdam, he is most know for his historical and academic paintings. Condition: Trimmed within plate mark. Small tears to right sheet edge. |
| Framing | unmounted |
| Price | £475.00 |
| Stock ID | 53336 |