Good Luck Victorian Masonic Fraternal Horseshoe Plaque

I first purchased this item a while ago, not knowing what it was but sure that it had an interesting story behind it. After some research, I have found that it does indeed!

This intriguing object is a horseshoe trivet plaque. These items were manufactured between the middle of the 19^th century to the early 20^th century as commemorative keepsakes, fraternal emblems, lodge favours and gifts. This particular trivet appears to originate from the USA as the top of the trivet features the American bald eagle. The fact that the eagle is facing left is significant; in the American flag the olive branch of peace is on the left whereas a bunch of arrows, symbolising the power of war, were on the right. The middle of the plaque features the fraternal handshake; a universal gesture of peace demonstrating that the hand holds no weapon. And, obviously the words spell out the intention to give good luck to the recipient.

This fascinating item measures 15 x 9.5cm and is made from silver metal over a copper coloured metal and is heavy. There are a few paint marks as showed in the photographs and the eagle’s head appears to be worn although this may be how it was originally made. The back reads: design pat. apld by J. Hoag.

An interesting object.