Langley, 2000.004

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Inspiration from Illustrated Books

The frontispiece from Batty Langley’s guide for carpenters, The Builder’s Jewel, provided the inspiration for the distinctive painted design on this apron. Many apron decorators found models for their work in printed certificates, book illustrations and other aprons. British publishers issued many editions of The Builder’s Jewel; a Massachusetts printer even released one in 1800.

Frontispiece from The Builder's Jewel, or, The Youth's Instructor…, 1763Batty Langley (1696–1751), authorThomas Langley (1702-1751), artist and engraverC. and R. Ware, printersLondon, EnglandScottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library, RARE 52 .L283 1763 c.1

Master Mason Apron, 1800–1825Design inspired by Batty Langley (1696–1751)Probably MassachusettsMuseum Purchase, 2000.004

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