The Free-Masons Surpriz'd – Hand-Coloured Masonic Satirical Print

An unusual hand-coloured print after the celebrated 18th-century Masonic satire The Free-Masons Surpriz'd, or the Secret Discover'd – A True Tale from a Mason's Lodge in Canterbury.

The original composition dates from the mid-18th century and depicts a Masonic lodge thrown into comic confusion after a young servant woman unexpectedly falls through the ceiling, apparently exposing the supposedly secret activities of the lodge.

The scene is filled with early Masonic imagery and symbolism, including lodge regalia, aprons, globes and working tools, accompanied by the original satirical verses beneath the image.

Examples of the original 18th-century etching are preserved in major collections including the British Museum and Morgan Library & Museum. The Morgan Library & Museum

This example appears to be a later hand-coloured reproduction/facsimile of the historic print rather than an original 18th-century impression.

An entertaining decorative piece for a collector of Freemasonry, Masonic memorabilia, Georgian social history or historical satirical prints.