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Porcelain punch bowl with gold and blue enamel grapevine border. Interior and exterior painted with various Masonic symbols, including sunburst in center bearing cipher "G".
punch bowls
enamel paint
gilding
hand-painted
porcelain
enameling
Chinese export
Freemasonry (society)
Vessel, Drink Serving
Bowl, Punch
Masonic
Bowl, Punch
"Cherished Possessions": Freemasonry was widespread in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, offering its members both fraternity and a touch of the exotic. Freemasonry played a pivotal role in the formation of this country. Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, Hamilton, and Madison were all members, as were many others of the nation's founders.
This bowl belonged to Bostonian Thomas Dennie (1756-1842), a wine merchant and an officer of St. John's Lodge. The imagery on the bowl reflects Masonic ideals. The rough ashlar stone with tools on it symbolizes man's imperfection. The smooth ashlar nearby shows man's perfectability through virtuous education. Although the bowl was intended for punch, its symbols reminded users to drink in moderation.
Unknown
China
4 3/8 (H), 11 (diameter) (inches)
Gift of Mrs. Charles P. Strong
1941.1210
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