Washington as a Free Mason lithograph, by
Joseph Klauprech, of Klauprech & Menzel, Lithographers, Cincinnati,
Ohio — published and for sale by James Slurer, 69 Pike St., Cincinnati,
OH, 1857 — measures: 10" x 13 1/2"
Some Info:
George Washington's involvement in Freemasonry has been well-documented,
making this print culturally and historically significant. Cincinnati,
Ohio was an important center for Masonic activity, and contributed to
the proliferation of celebrating prominent Masonic figures.
George Washington was raised to the degree of Master Mason in 1752. This
is the third and highest degree in Freemasonry, which signifies a
member's full participation in the fraternity. He was initiated at the
Alexandria Lodge No. 22 in Virginia. Throughout his life, Washington was
actively involved in Masonic activities, joining various lodges, and
served as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Virginia later on.
Joseph Kauprech was a lithographer. He was a partner with Charles
Menzel, and collaborated in their lithographic and publishing endeavors
in Cincinnati. Together, they contributed to the 19th-century cultural
landscape, producing a variety of artistic and printed works.
James Slurer initially gained recognition for producing high-quality
lithographic maps, which were significant during a time when such
detailed geographical representations were in demand. He later
transitioned into creating lithographs of prominent Masonic figures. One
of his notable works is the lithograph titled "Washington as a
Freemason," which depicts George Washington in Masonic regalia.