2-835-276 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

African-American abolitionist Prince Hall (c. 1735-1807) founded Prince Hall Freemasonry and was a leader in the free black community in Boston. He also lobbied for education rights for African American children and was active in the back-to-Africa movement. The apron is composed of a front piece (2013.71.1a) and two ties (2013.71.1bc). The front of the apron is likely silk and constructed from two pieces sewn together along the top edge. Both have a white central field with blue borders. The main piece is a rough square featuring a compass and sun painted in gold. The upper piece is an isosceles triangle coming to a point 6 3/4" from the top of the apron. It features a gold painted illustration of an eye in the middle of a radiating design. The apron is backed with undecorated cotton or linen, which is discolored and stained. The two detached ribbon ties are blue and likely made of silk.