Independent Order of Odd Fellows Block1880–190010 1/2 × 4 1/2 × 1 1/4"StoneGift of Kendra and Allan Daniel2015.1.12501555285135Artist unidentifiedSculptureThe American Folk Art Museum believes this work to be in the public domain. United StatesThree Dimensional WorksFraternal Art and ObjectsSmall stone carvings in the shape of blocks, books, and stools enjoyed popularity as gifts during the late nineteenth century. Proficiently cut decorative emblems on such pieces suggest that they were made by trained stonecutters who often worked in gravestone monument shops. Both of these examples include the primary symbol of the Odd Fellows: the three-link chain symbolizing friendship, love, and truth. The use of the Odd Fellows symbols suggests that the maker was a member or that it was commissioned as a gift for a member. The block also includes the heart in hand symbol and the name “W.P. Oakes.”
Stacy C. Hollander, "Independent Order of Odd Fellows Block," 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.org18801900 2015 1 125 Small stone carvings in the shape of blocks, books, and stools enjoyed popularity as gifts during the late nineteenth century. Proficiently cut decorative emblems on such pieces suggest that they were made by trained stonecutters who often worked in gravestone monument shops. Both of these examples include the primary symbol of the Odd Fellows: the three-link chain symbolizing friendship, love, and truth. The use of the Odd Fellows symbols suggests that the maker was a member or that it was commissioned as a gift for a member. The block also includes the heart in hand symbol and the name “W.P. Oakes.”
Stacy C. Hollander, "Independent Order of Odd Fellows Block," 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