I.O.O.F. Ark Of The Covenant

Country of Origin: USA

Period: Circa 1895–1915

Dimensions: Approx 31 x 18 x 16 in.

Condition: Age and Handling Wear

Additional Information: Large antique ceremonial Ark of the Covenant made for the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, most likely for use by the order’s Encampment branch during presentation of the Royal Purple Degree.

The front is decorated with the Odd Fellows’ three-link emblem in red, white and blue, containing the letters: F – L – T These stand for the order’s principles of: Friendship, Love and Truth

The ark is constructed from solid wood with an aged gold-bronze painted finish, molded architectural trim and recessed side panels. It retains a removable and reversible upper section, folding support legs and four sectional carrying pole extensions stored inside.

The exterior side rails function as the central sections of two ceremonial carrying poles. The four loose gilt poles thread into the exposed ends, extending the rails so the ark could be carried during lodge ceremonies or processions. The folding legs raise the ark to display height and fold beneath it for storage and transport.

The removable lid has four old mounting holes arranged in two pairs. These may have supported two decorative cherubim figures, although period lodge supply companies also offered arks without cherubim. No reproduction figures have been added, and the exact original configuration is unknown.

The overall design closely resembles Odd Fellows arks offered around 1900 by the Henderson-Ames Company of Kalamazoo, Michigan, including models with gold bronzed finishes, removable lids, triple link decoration and sectional carrying poles.

The piece remains in unrestored antique condition, with age and use wear, including: scratches, abrasions, and finish loss; dirt, discoloration, and dulling of the gold bronze surface; wear and oxidation to the carrying poles and fittings; and without cherubim figures or other top ornaments.

The four carrying-pole extensions, removable top and folding legs are included. Sold as a historic fraternal collectible and not intended for active ceremonial carrying. An unusual piece of Odd Fellows history with appeal to collectors of fraternal material, lodge furnishings, American folk art and institutional antiques.