Description

This is a sturdy, visually impressive 1917 leatherbound two-volume set of The New and Revised Edition of the Encyclopedia of Freemasonry by Albert G. Mackey and Charles T. McClenachan, revised and expanded by Edward L. Hawkins and William J. Hughan. Both volumes are structurally strong with no shake and retain their original all edges gilt. Volume I shows reinforced endpapers front and rear—neatly executed but causing the free endpaper to be unusually tight to the pastedown. Volume II has a split front endpaper and similar reinforcement to the rear, with evidence of careful, professional stabilization. Leather spines show moderate rubbing and some fraying at the crown and foot, typical for the era but nothing that affects integrity. The boards are still rich in color, and the gilt emblems remain bright and striking. Internally, both volumes are unmarked, with clean pages and crisp printing. A very presentable and solid example of this foundational Masonic reference. This revised edition, published by the Masonic History Company in New York and London, is profusely illustrated throughout. Each volume features a stunning full-color frontispiece protected by tissue guard, as well as numerous in-text diagrams and illustrations—ranging from charts of Kabbalistic cosmology to symbolic engravings and Masonic ritual imagery. The set covers not only the history and philosophy of Freemasonry but also its related sciences, symbols, rituals, jurisprudence, literature, and biographies of notable figures. It is alphabetically arranged (Vol. I A–L, Vol. II M–Z) and includes long-form scholarly entries reflecting both 19th-century thought and early 20th-century scholarship. Albert G. Mackey (1807–1881), a leading American Masonic scholar and physician, originally compiled this work in the 19th century. The 1917 revision builds upon that foundation with expanded content and updated research from Hughan, a notable Masonic historian and archivist from England. These encyclopedias remain a cornerstone in the study of fraternal organizations and esoteric traditions, prized by collectors, researchers, and Masonic lodges alike. A beautiful and substantial set with great historical and aesthetic appeal—difficult to find in this condition with reinforced hinges and clean interiors. If you’re building a Masonic collection, this is an anchor piece. *** Please take a moment to view all photos for the best sense of the item’s condition. If only one photo is shown, rest assured the description reflects it carefully. Your item will be shipped promptly and packaged with care. ***