Masonic wall piece

NamePlaque, frame

CultureAmerican

Date1967

Place madeUnited States, North America

Mediumwood, plastic, photograph, paint

Dimensions37 3/16 × 28 15/16 × 1 3/4 in. (94.5 × 73.5 × 4.5 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, Gift of Eric Zafran, FA.2022.15.1

Object numberFA.2022.15.1

ProvenancePurchased by donor Eric Zafran from Artisans, Fort Payne, Alabama. Collection of Houston, Texas, dealer Private collection, family of James and Vernon Thompson

DescriptionThis Masonic frame holds an original photographic portrait, presumably of either the maker or the recipient of the gift: brothers James Thompson (the maker) or his brother Vernon L. Thompson. The inscription on the back of the frame reads: “Made by James Thompson, for wonderful Brother Vernon L. Thompson, Nov. 1967, Prov. 3-6, 162 pieces wood, 272 pieces plastic.” The wood and plastic pieces are either inlaid or applied to the surface of the frame, and include Freemasonry symbols and abbreviations, such as “WSB” (Wisdom, Strength, Beauty), “AFAM” (Ancient Free and Accepted Masons), and “MW” (Most Worshipful). The general shape of the frame is the form of the square and compass, and the “G” at center.