Masonic Master Apron, attributed to David D’Angers

The rich pattern of this woodblock-printed apron features 3 triangles, one of which is on the bib, suspended by blue (printed) ribbons and bearing the words Strength, Wisdom and Beauty. The focal point of the composition features a radiating delta atop the tomb of Master Hiram, approached via a winding staircase. On the left, a Greek temple is paired with an Egyptian pyramid. On the right are boulders and an acacia branch.

The decision of the Grand Lodge on March 17th, 1731, decreed the following: “No person, except the Grand Master, his Deputy, and the Wardens, shall wear any gold or gilt ornament hanging from a blue ribbon around the neck, nor any white leather apron with blue silk; these, however, may be worn by former Grand Officers. “This is the first reference to blue silk on aprons and it is clear that blue was originally reserved for Grand Officers.