Printing blocks - Masonic Guild Emblem
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Antique Masonic-style printing block, small wood-mounted block with metal relief depicting traditional working tools, circa 1890–1910, dimensions 3 × 3 × 2.5 cm, 20 g, in good condition with signs of age, style industrial.
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Description from the seller
Antique Masonic-Style Printing Block – Traditional Mason's Working Tools – c. 1890–1910
An unusual miniature printing block featuring a finely detailed relief of traditional masonry working tools, mounted on a solid wooden base and provisionally dated to the late 19th or early 20th century, circa 1890–1910.
The circular emblem depicts an arrangement of symbolic working tools, including a pair of compasses, a builder's square, a plumb bob and a mortar trowel, surrounded by a decorative laurel wreath. An additional bell-shaped element is visible within the composition.
These instruments have a long history in both operative stonemasonry and speculative Freemasonry. In Masonic tradition, the square represents morality and upright conduct, the compasses symbolise restraint and self-discipline, the plumb signifies uprightness and integrity, and the trowel is associated with spreading brotherly love and strengthening fraternity.
The composition is consistent with traditional Masonic and historical builders' guild imagery. Although its precise institutional affiliation remains unidentified, the combination of working tools suggests a connection with masonry-related symbolism.
The relief is mounted on a compact wooden block, characteristic of historical printing and stamping equipment. Such wood-mounted blocks were commonly used in commercial, institutional and decorative printing during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Comparable historical printing blocks support the proposed dating of circa 1890–1910, although the exact production date and original printing application cannot be independently confirmed.
Measuring just 3 × 3 × 2.5 cm and weighing approximately 20 g, the block is notable for its miniature proportions and remarkably detailed design.
The object remains in good antique condition, with well-preserved relief details, visible surface patina and minor age-related wear to the edges and wooden mount, consistent with its presumed age. The dark relief surface features contrasting bronze-gold tones, while the exposed wood retains its natural grain and aged appearance.
- Dimensions: 3 × 3 × 2.5 cm
- Weight: 20 g
The item will be carefully packed and shipped with tracking.
Antique Masonic-Style Printing Block – Traditional Mason's Working Tools – c. 1890–1910
An unusual miniature printing block featuring a finely detailed relief of traditional masonry working tools, mounted on a solid wooden base and provisionally dated to the late 19th or early 20th century, circa 1890–1910.
The circular emblem depicts an arrangement of symbolic working tools, including a pair of compasses, a builder's square, a plumb bob and a mortar trowel, surrounded by a decorative laurel wreath. An additional bell-shaped element is visible within the composition.
These instruments have a long history in both operative stonemasonry and speculative Freemasonry. In Masonic tradition, the square represents morality and upright conduct, the compasses symbolise restraint and self-discipline, the plumb signifies uprightness and integrity, and the trowel is associated with spreading brotherly love and strengthening fraternity.
The composition is consistent with traditional Masonic and historical builders' guild imagery. Although its precise institutional affiliation remains unidentified, the combination of working tools suggests a connection with masonry-related symbolism.
The relief is mounted on a compact wooden block, characteristic of historical printing and stamping equipment. Such wood-mounted blocks were commonly used in commercial, institutional and decorative printing during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Comparable historical printing blocks support the proposed dating of circa 1890–1910, although the exact production date and original printing application cannot be independently confirmed.
Measuring just 3 × 3 × 2.5 cm and weighing approximately 20 g, the block is notable for its miniature proportions and remarkably detailed design.
The object remains in good antique condition, with well-preserved relief details, visible surface patina and minor age-related wear to the edges and wooden mount, consistent with its presumed age. The dark relief surface features contrasting bronze-gold tones, while the exposed wood retains its natural grain and aged appearance.
- Dimensions: 3 × 3 × 2.5 cm
- Weight: 20 g
The item will be carefully packed and shipped with tracking.
Details
Era
1400-1900
Weight
20 g
Over 200 years old
No
Title additional information
Masonic Guild Emblem
Number of objects
1
Material
Metal, Wood
Style
Industrial
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
3 cm
Width
3 cm
Depth
2.5 cm
Estimated period
1890-1910
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