Lodges began to replace hand-painted tracing boards with printed examples by the middle of the nineteenth century. This is one section of a chart used in a Masonic lodge to instruct initiates about the symbolism of the degrees. John Sherer published his charts in several sizes, which could be purchased in sections or in one wall-size version. Often these charts were mounted on rollers to make them easier to hang on the wall of the lodge. 

This section was part of the instruction for the Master Mason, or Third, Degree. The central symbol, known variously as “Father Time and the Virgin” or “Time and the Maiden,” is credited to Jeremy L. Cross (1783–1860), author of The True Masonic Chart, or Hieroglyphic Monitor, first published in 1819. Cross’s book included his designs for more than forty plates that were engraved by Amos Doolittle (1754–1832). His illustrations had a long-lasting influence on Masonic visual culture. This example, formally known as the “broken column,” shows Father Time as an old man running his hands through a weeping young woman’s (the Virgin) hair. A symbol of life cut short, the image reminds Masons that time, patience, and perseverance accomplish all things.

Stacy C. Hollander, “Masonic Chart for Third Degree," exhibition label for Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd Fellows Folk Art from the Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection. Stacy C. Hollander, curator. New York: American Folk Art Museum, 2016.

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