The masonic lodge carpet, also called a tracing board, is one of the richest symbolic supports in Freemasonry. Drawn or embroidered, it accompanies the works of each degree and brings together, in a single composition, all the symbols evoked during the meeting. This guide details its origin, symbolism and use according to degree and rite.

Origin of the lodge carpet

Originally, the first Freemasons traced the symbols needed for the day's work directly on the lodge floor in chalk — hence the name "tracing board". This temporary drawing, erased at the end of the meeting to preserve the secrecy of the works, was gradually replaced by a permanent support: the lodge carpet as we know it today, drawn or embroidered on fabric.

The symbolism of the lodge carpet

Each lodge carpet brings together the symbols specific to the degree concerned: the columns of the Temple (Jakin and Boaz), the black-and-white chequered mosaic pavement, the blazing star, the square and compass, the letter G, and many others depending on the rite and degree. This composition serves as a support for meditation as much as for teaching: it allows the lessons transmitted orally during the meeting to be fixed visually.

A different carpet for each degree

The apprentice's carpet differs from the fellow craft's, which in turn differs from the master's, each emphasising different symbols corresponding to the teaching of the degree. The higher degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (REAA/AASR) each have their own carpet, as do the degrees of the French Rite or the Rectified Scottish Rite.

A different carpet for each rite

Beyond the degree, the composition of the lodge carpet also varies according to the rite practised: the REAA, the French Rite, the Rectified Scottish Rite or the Emulation Rite do not organise their symbols in the same way, nor do they retain exactly the same elements. A faithful lodge carpet must therefore respect both the degree and the rite to which it belongs.

Choosing your lodge carpet well

As with any piece of masonic regalia, the quality of the lodge carpet — precision of the drawing or embroidery, sturdiness of the support, ritual accuracy — guarantees a support that lasts through years of lodge work without deteriorating.

Our Fellow Craft lodge carpet (REAA)

At Décors et Symboles, our Fellow Craft lodge tracing board (AASR) faithfully depicts the symbols of the degree, columns included. Also discover our lodge tools and our masonic books to deepen your knowledge of the symbolism of your carpets and tracing boards.

Masonic Lodge Carpet: Origin, Symbolism and Use by Degree