A Ritual and Illustrations of Freemasonry Accompanied by Numerous Engravings and A Key to the Phi Beta Kappa

London: Reeves and Turner, circa 1880. 12mo, iv, [30 leaves of plates], 254 pages, publisher's original gilt-lettered and decorated green cloth covered boards. A Ritual and Illustrations of Freemasonry is an early Masonic exposé and ritual manual attributed to Avery Allyn, presenting detailed descriptions of Masonic ceremonies, degrees, signs, grips, passwords, symbols, and regalia, accompanied by numerous engraved illustrations. First published in America in 1831, the work became one of the better-known nineteenth-century attempts to reveal the ritual practices and purported secrets of Freemasonry to a general readership. This London edition was issued by Reeves and Turner of 196 Strand, publishers with a long association with Masonic and esoteric literature, and also includes a key to the Phi Beta Kappa society. An appealing nineteenth-century work for collectors of Freemasonry, secret societies, fraternal orders, Masonic ritual, symbolism, anti-Masonic literature, and occult or esoteric history. Front hinge cracked through, rear hinge cracked, front free endpaper detached, rubbing and wear, scuffs, some discoloration, else in good condition. Item #516

Price: $120.00