The 14 lots offered at Lacy Scott & Knight’s September 9 sale of fine art and antiques include beakers, bucket pedestal goblets, firing glasses and tumblers offered without reserve individually or in pairs and groups.
The pieces were consigned by an East Anglian vendor who is a mason and who started buying masonic glasses from antique shops and auctions from the mid-1980s. At that point, Ed Crichton of Lacy Scott & Knight says, simple etched firing glass typically cost just £20-30.
A pair of early 19th century deep bucket pedestal goblets, estimated at £300-500, are expected to be the top lot. Each stands 6in (16cm) high and is acid etched with a masonic coat of arms as well as symbols and monograms. Another lot, a 19th century glass beaker estimated at £150-200, includes winged cherubs under the stars.
Pieces such as these and their modern counterparts are used for masonic ceremonies such as consecrations and anniversaries of the foundations of lodges.
