Chapeau de Franc-Maçon : Tricornes, Toques et Couvre-chefs Maçonniques
Présent dans plusieurs Rites, le chapeau maçonnique participe à la solennité des Travaux et s’inscrit dans une tradition initiatique ancienne, où le vêtement accompagne le geste rituel et renforce la symbolique du Grade.
Selon le Rite pratiqué, le chapeau de franc-maçon peut prendre des formes variées : tricorne, toque, chapeau noir de ville ou kippa maçonnique. Chaque couvre-chef répond à des usages précis, hérités de l’histoire de la franc-maçonnerie et adaptés aux sensibilités rituelles de chaque tradition.
Why the Freemason's hat is worn in a Lodge
Wearing a hat in a Lodge is not a matter of aesthetics or folklore. It's about codified usewhich marks the Master Mason's status and commitment to initiation. In some traditions, the covering of the head during work symbolizes freedom of thought, independence of spirit and the dignity of the Master Mason.
The Freemason's hat also helps to set the ritual in order. Like the apronthe gloves or the jewelryIt helps to distinguish between secular and initiatory time, and reminds us that the Mason operates in a symbolic space governed by his own rules.
Historical origins of the Masonic hat
The wearing of hats by Masters during Work dates back mainly to the XVIIIᵉ century. At that time, it was frequently associated with wearing the swordtwo distinctive signs traditionally reserved for the nobility. This dual attribution partly explains the attraction of Freemasonry to the rising bourgeoisie, eager to gain access to hitherto aristocratic codes.
Ancient rituals did not describe precisely the type of hat to be worn. They were usually headgear for everyday life profane: tricorn, black hat or simple toque. It was only with the development of the Rites and High Grades that certain ritual headgear was formalized and integrated into Masonic practice.
The Freemason tricorn: a strong symbol of the Rectified Scottish Rite
The traditional tricorne
The tricorne is a hat that appeared in Europe in the late XVIIᵉ century and was widely worn until the early XIXᵉ century. Initially utilitarian, it quickly became a social markerthen an emblematic element of the civilian and military elite.
In Freemasonry, the tricorn has been retained by certain Rites for its strong symbolic value and historical roots.
The Freemason tricorn on the RER
In France, Lodges working on the Rectified Scottish Rite (RER) have generally adopted the black tricorn as a ritual hat. This hat is traditionally adorned with a sky blue rosettethe distinctive sign of the Rite.
The RER Freemason tricorn is more than just an accessory. It embodies the Rite's chivalric heritage, spiritual orientation and loyalty to a structured tradition. Wearing the tricorn in a Lodge is a matter of precise custom, and contributes to the solemn atmosphere of the proceedings.
The Masonic hat in the Scottish Rites
REAA and Memphis-Misraim
Lodges working on the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (REAA) as well as Memphis-Misraïm Rite often prefer a black circular hat. This hat may or may not be adorned with Lakes of Lovesymbols of union, continuity and initiatory fidelity.
The sobriety of the Freemason's hat reflects the spirit of these Rites, while leaving room for variations linked to local customs or the prescriptions of certain High Grades.
Les Chevaliers Bienfaisants de la Cité Sainte du RER
Within the Rectified Scottish Rite, the Chevaliers Bienfaisants de la Cité Sainte (C.B.C.S.) carry a white toquedecorated with the red Templar cross. This highly symbolic headgear marks membership of a knightly rank and reinforces the spiritual dimension of the ritual.
The French Rite Freemason's hat
Lodges working on the French Rite generally opt for a black city hatoften of the felt or borsalino type. This choice is in keeping with a more sober and rational tradition, faithful to the spirit of the French Rite.
This deliberately discreet Freemason's hat is reminiscent of secular usage, yet retains a ritual function when worn in a Lodge. It illustrates the French Rite's desire to reconcile initiation tradition and modernity.
The Masonic yarmulke: Hebraic tradition and symbolism
Visit masonic kippah is supported by some Masons of the Jewish faith, but also by Lodges wishing to emphasize the Hebraic character of Solomon's Temple tradition.
This headgear expresses humility before the Creator Principle and reminds us of the importance of spiritual transmission in the initiation process. In the Lodge, the Masonic kippah thus becomes a symbol of respect, loyalty to tradition and openness to the plurality of cultural heritages.
Masonic high-grade hats and toques
Some High grades prescribed specific hats or toques, both in shape and decoration. These ritual headdresses reflect the degree of initiation attained, and reinforce the solemnity of the ceremonies.
The High-Grade Mason's hat is never left to chance: it plays a full part in the symbolic language of the Grade and accompanies the Mason on his initiatory journey.
Our collections of freemason hats and headgear
At Our ColumnsIn order to meet the ritual needs of each Rite and the specific requirements of Master Masons, we have structured our range of Masonic hats and headwear into distinct collections. Each collection features pieces designed for lodge use, faithful to Masonic traditions and meticulously crafted in our workshop.
Our collection of masonic hats gathers the traditional headgear worn by Masters in Lodges, particularly the sober models used in Symbolic Works. These masons' hats are designed for regular use and fit in naturally with ritual clothing.
Visit masonic kippah occupies a special place in some Lodges, in connection with the Hebrew tradition of Solomon's Temple. Our freemason yarmulkes are made with respect for ritual customs and are suitable for wearing in Lodges.
Visit masonic toques are mainly used in the Scottish Rites and certain High Grades. Whether black, white or adorned with specific symbols, they are an important part of the ritual clothing and contribute to the solemnity of the Work.
Visit masonic crownsFinally, they are designed for specific ritual uses and symbolic prescriptions. They complete the range of freemason headgear offered by Nos Colonnes and are designed for specific initiation contexts.
Handcrafted and customized
At Our Columnsall our masonic hats is designed and manufactured directly in our workshop. We pay particular attention to materials, finishes and respect for the traditions specific to each Rite.
We also offer a personalization of your Masonic hats and decorations, in accordance with ritual usage. If you have a specific request, please contact us for a quote. Masonic decor customization page. We'll help you choose the right Freemason hat for your Lodge practice.
