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Anchor Plaque
Artist unidentified
Photo by José Andrés Ramírez
Anchor Plaque
Anchor Plaque Artist unidentified Photo by José Andrés Ramírez
Record Details

Anchor Plaque

Date1920–1950
MediumPaint on wood
Dimensions38 × 30 1/2 × 1"
Credit LineGift of Kendra and Allan Daniel
Accession number2015.1.26
Description

The anchor is an ancient symbol whose function is easily understood, as an anchor holds a boat to the shore, providing safety and harbor. Its use as a Christian symbol of hope dates to at least 400 AD. Many American fraternal groups use the anchor in their degrees, including the Freemasons and the Odd Fellows; however, not every depiction of an anchor is necessarily fraternal. The origins of this anchor plaque remain obscure.

Stacy C. Hollander, "Anchor Plaque," 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.

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated with new research. Records are reviewed and revised, and the American Folk Art Museum welcomes additional information. 

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