The Rite Français Traditionnel (RFT) occupies a unique place in the history of Freemasonry. A direct descendant of the 1785 ritual adopted by the Grand Orient de FranceIt is characterized by ritual sobriety, symbolic coherence and a deep respect for the original spirit of the XVIIIᵉ century. Unlike more modernized versions (such as the Rite Français Groussier), the RFT seeks to remain faithful to the original formulation, as recorded in the Mason's Regulator of 1801.
For the lodges working with the RFT, the choice of Masonic decorations is not just aesthetic: it's a direct extension of tradition. Aprons, cords, saltires and jewelry thus become tangible witnesses not only to historical continuity, but also to an initiation practice rooted in the philosophy of the Enlightenment.
French Rite "Traditional"
French Rite "Traditional " Regalia
The Traditional French Rite (Rite Français Traditionnel - RFT) is a restoration, in the 1960s, of the 1785 French Rite, published as "Le Régulateur du Maçon" in 1801.
On Nos Colonnes, you will find all the aprons, gloves, sashes, collars, hats or kippah, ties, neckties and collar jewels used by the Freemason of the French Rite "Traditional" and "Modern".
Origins and specificities of the Traditional French Rite
The RFT was born in a context of rationalization and unification of French Freemasonry. When the Grand Orient de France decided, in 1781, to codify its scattered rituals, it produced a clear, concise version that was officially adopted in 1785. It was this basis, subsequently disseminated by the Mason's Regulator of 1801, which will be adopted by lodges claiming to belong to the Traditional French Rite.
What sets RFT apart :
✔ A ritual sobriety absence of the spectacular or macabre staging common in the XVIIIᵉ century.
✔ A philosophical balance a combination of Enlightenment rationalism and symbolic sensibility.
✔ A historical accuracy A return to the formulations and practices as conceived by the founders of the French Rite.
Unlike the Rite Français Groussier, which modernizes formulations, or the Rite Français Moderne Rétabli, which recomposes from various sources, the RFT claims direct continuity with the 1785 text.
Our decorations for the Traditional French Rite
RFT aprons are characterized by restrained elegance and symbols directly inherited from 18thᵉ century rituals. Their proportions, colors and embroidery are tailored to the three symbolic grades and higher offices.
Cords and harnesses
The cords, made in precise shades, express the membership and function of each brother or sister. They are made according to the colors codified by tradition, ensuring consistency and regularity in the lodge.
Long necklaces
RFT saltires distinguish officers and dignitaries. Carefully embroidered, they incorporate traditional Masonic jewelry (square, level, mallet, etc.), contributing to the symbolic hierarchy specific to this Rite.
Masonic jewelry
Made of gold-plated metal, the RFT Masonic jewelry is based on the historical insignia described in the Mason's Regulator. They visually mark the function and preserve the spirit of the rite.
Every set we offer is designed to last and to accompany your lodge work, whether for ordinary outfits or solemn ceremonies.
Why choose Nos Colonnes for your RFT decors?
Choosing Nos Colonnes means choosing a decor that respects tradition and highlights your Masonic commitment. Our strengths :
✔ Historical respect faithful reproduction of the decorations defined by the French Rite of 1785.
✔ Handcrafted quality : meticulous finishing, sturdy, comfortable materials.
✔ Ritual conformity : colors, shapes and insignia aligned with symbolic prescriptions.
✔ Customization possible Customization of embroidery or badges to meet the specific needs of your lodge.
Discover our other collections related to the French Rite
To enrich your knowledge and complete your decorations, we invite you to explore our other collections devoted to the variations of the French Rite:
Each page is designed to explore a particular facet of the Rite, to avoid confusion and provide a clear, structured vision.
