Independent Order of Odd Fellows Quiver of Arrows1850–190027 × 7" diam.Paint and traces of gold leaf on wood, with metalGift of Kendra and Allan Daniel2015.1.5401554775081Artist unidentifiedSculptureThe American Folk Art Museum believes this work to be in the public domain. United StatesThree Dimensional WorksFraternal Art and ObjectsThe quiver, bow, and arrows were originally used in the rituals of the Second, or Love, Degree rituals of Odd Fellowship that related the biblical story of David and Jonathan. After the group reorganized its degrees in 1882, these symbols became part of the First, or Friendship, Degree. In this context, the quiver acts as a receptacle to store the means of ensuring safety, and also teaches that an Odd Fellow should be “ever ready to watch over a brother’s welfare, and to render him due service.” The quiver is a sign of preparation and readiness, and a symbol of memory. The arrows it holds further reflect the idea that there is a “place for everything and everything in its place.” Like many other props shown in the exhibition, these brightly colored objects were available from specialized manufacturers in different styles and costs.
Stacy C. Hollander, "Independent Order of Odd Fellows Quiver of Arrow," 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.
To help improve this record, please email photoservices@folkartmuseum.org18501900 2015 1 54 The quiver, bow, and arrows were originally used in the rituals of the Second, or Love, Degree rituals of Odd Fellowship that related the biblical story of David and Jonathan. After the group reorganized its degrees in 1882, these symbols became part of the First, or Friendship, Degree. In this context, the quiver acts as a receptacle to store the means of ensuring safety, and also teaches that an Odd Fellow should be “ever ready to watch over a brother’s welfare, and to render him due service.” The quiver is a sign of preparation and readiness, and a symbol of memory. The arrows it holds further reflect the idea that there is a “place for everything and everything in its place.” Like many other props shown in the exhibition, these brightly colored objects were available from specialized manufacturers in different styles and costs.
Stacy C. Hollander, "Independent Order of Odd Fellows Quiver of Arrow," 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.
To help improve this record, please email photoservices@folkartmuseum.org