Very Rare Odd Fellows Carved And Painted Ceremonial Heart-in-hand Staff, Florida, Circa 1890: Very Rare Odd Fellows Carved And Painted Ceremonial Heart-in-hand Staff, Florida, Circa 1890

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Very Rare Odd Fellows Carved And Painted Ceremonial Heart-in-hand Staff, Florida, Circa 1890

This exceptional ceremonial staff from Florida, dating to circa 1890, showcases the skilled craftsmanship of an anonymous artisan working within the fraternal traditions of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The staff features the iconic heart-in-hand symbol, intricately carved and painted, representing the organization's core tenet of charity — to "carry the heart in the hand." As a rare surviving example of Odd Fellows ceremonial regalia, this piece serves as both a functional ritual object and a remarkable testament to American folk art and fraternal culture of the late 19th century.

Spotted At: Auction House · Sotheby's

🔨 Auction Lot

Sculptural Fantasy: The Important American Folk Art Collection of Stephen and Petra Levin

October 10, 2019

Estimate: $1,500 – $2,500

Lot 29

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Very Rare Odd Fellows Carved And Painted Ceremonial Heart-in-hand Staff, Florida, Circa 1890, Very Rare Odd Fellows Carved And Painted Ceremonial Heart-in-hand Staff, Florida, Circa 1890

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