Amazing, unique and very large (2 meter +) mid-19th century Masonic Lodge �Senior Wardens� ceremonial ritual chair, with hand painted and elaborately carved magical symbols.The shaped top rail above elaborately shaped and painted back slats with swept arms and square sectioned legs united by stretchers, with carpeted steps.The back has various figures painted by hand, a five pointed pentagram star within a circle, three circles interfaced with a triangle, a Odd Fellows skull coffin with emblem of mortality, a cock, a man dressed as a Knight Templar of the period and beneath the lower panel of the chair is depicted a lamb bearing a flag, a cross with a serpent entwined, a ladder resting against a cross with a sword and sceptre behind, the hole surmounted by a crown.There are two inscriptions in cipher on the chair which when decoded read ''In This Sign Thou Shalt Conquer'' and ''Establish'',Provenance: Charity Lodge - Farnworth East Lancs Masonic Lodge, No.350.One online feature (see photo) mentions the chairs were purchased 2nd hand by the Lodge over 200 years ago, which dates them to Circa 1800 - 1820.Unique and very special Masonic chair that has been featured in a book published in 1917: A Record of Antiquities, and Articles of Masonic Interest, Belonging to the Craft Lodges & RA Chapters by Beesley, and a few mentions and photos can also be found online (see last photos).A very impressive, unique and decorative item which is very solid and in good condition for period. Some loses to varnish, obvious wear/use marks, scratches to back panel, seat panel is worn.Very large - Height: 206cm x Width: 71cm x Depth (without steps): 75.5cm.Shipping via van courier to UK and Europe.Dreams Less Sweet Antiques - Curated Theatrical Antiques, Curiosities & Works of Art.Items ship from London, Worldwide.Height is 206cm (81.1inches)
Width is 71cm (28.0inches)
Depth is 75.5cm (29.7inches)