Red Earthenware Chain Links Likely Manufactured for an Odd Fellows Lodge in America

These are three nineteenth or early twentieth century red earthenware chain links that I just acquired from an antiques dealer in Virginia, although, they were found years ago by a collector in the Ohio and Pennsylvania area. I have never seen anything like them before made out of pottery.

They were almost certainly manufactured for an Odd Fellows lodge in America and symbolize the fellowship's motto of Amicitia, Amor et Veritas or "Friendship, Love and Truth." These type of three linked chains are also found on the Eye of Providence, symbols of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which began in Manchester, England on April 26, 1819.

However, Odd Fellows chain links have even sold through various auction houses over the years, including a large example that sold through Skinner in Marlborough, Massachusetts in June 2019. Many of the known examples have also been found in the Midwest, such as those discovered in Odd Fellows lodges in places like Indiana and Michigan.

Red Earthenware Chain Links Likely Manufactured for an Odd Fellows Lodge in America

 Red Earthenware Chain Links Likely Manufactured for an Odd Fellows Lodge in America

Circa 19th or Early 20th Century

Each Link Measures About 4 1/2" Long

The Total Length is About 10 1/2" Long

Found Years Ago by a Collector in the Ohio and Pennsylvania Area

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Another View of the Chain Links

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