En: Masonic Cartoons

Masonic Cartoons

by Dr. David Harrison

Masonic satirical cartoons, like political cartoons, have been popular since the 18th century; from the 'Mock-Masonry' prints of the 1740s to the regular satirical sideswipes of the present period. Even William Hogarth, a Freemason himself, used Freemasonry as a satirical subject matter. Here are a few:

A satirical cartoon from c. 1800 revealing what is believed to be the pains of initiation - a subject matter that resurfaces many times in cartoons.

'Night' by William Hogarth. Hogarth was a Freemason, serving as a Grand Steward. This popular print was part of a series entitled 'Four Times of Day', a series that were originally four paintings that were completed in 1736. The engravings were published two years later. The engraving reveals a chaotic but satirical scene; the seemingly drunken Mason (the jewel reveals he may be the Worshipful Master of the lodge) is being escorted home by his steward or Tyler, oblivious to the chamber pot being emptied over his head. Violence erupts all around them as they stagger homeward. The sign of the 'Rummer and Grapes' can be seen - the tavern where one of the four lodges that founded the Premier Grand Lodge met. The Mason may be a representation of Thomas de Veil - an unpopular and hypocritical Bow Street Magistrate who gave harsh sentences to gin-sellers, even though he was a known drinker himself.