Historic Vintage 32nd Degree Masonic Cap

The brimless hat is made of stiff black grosgrain and features a double-headed eagle on the front in dazzling bullion embroidery.

An elegant artisanal tradition, bullion embroidery is characterized by working silver or gold thread into an embroidered design.

As you can see, the eagle is rendered in all bold, bullion thread and features the number "32" in a red triangle at the top.

The double-headed eagle has stood as the symbol of Scottish Rite Freemasonry for many years.

This hat would have certainly been present at many of their clandestine ceremonies.

While the symbol elicits a number of meanings, it was introduced in France in mid 18th century as the emblem of Kadosh sect of Freemasonry. This correlates to the "32" pictured above the eagle symbol.

There are a total of 33 degrees in Scottish Rite Freemasonry; a Mason who has attained the 32nd degree is referred to as "Master of Kadosh" or "Master of the Royal Secret".

Two golden cords run along the top of the hat and are attached at each side with a gold-tone button. Each of these buttons depicts the double-headed eagle in beautiful, dimensional detail.

Inside, the cap is lined with black satin and features a faux-leather perforated sweat band.

There is a plastic card-holder affixed to the underside of the crown (for storing the owner and maker's identification information).

Here you will find the maker's tag which reads "Anthony Nizzardini Masonic Supply Co. 175-5th Ave., New York, N.Y., 10010, (212) 254-6048".

Anthony Nizzardini is a renowned manufacturer and has been supplying the Masonic community for many years.

There is one more small tag attached to the sweatband which includes the size, "7-1/2".

You will see only a few loose threads and some very minor wear, but this beautiful and unique cap remains in excellent vintage condition overall.

This piece is sure to arouse the interest of hat and Freemasonry paraphernalia collectors alike!

Measurements: Interior circumference: 22 1/4", Exterior circumference: 24 3/4", Hat height: 3 3/8", Double-headed eagle embroidery is 2 5/8" tall and 2 1/8" wide Weight: 106 grams (3.7 oz)

Item ID: 1764