intact original c. 1900-10 single-sided rectangular-shaped exterior masonic lodge building facade alabama marble freemasonry plaque. the thin and delicate hand-carved marble plaque was carefully salvaged from a far south side chicago masonic lodge building undergoing demolition. the early 20th century lodge was later converted into a clothing store, but prior to demolition, the plaque was discovered under aluminum paneling likely installed in the 1960's during a tasteless facadectomy. the plaque features the freemasonry symbol, with square and compasses surrounding a centrally located letter "g." the addition of the letter is widely interpreted to stand for god as a reminder that god is at the center of freemasonry. in this context it can also stand for great architect of the universe (a reference to god). yet in a different context, the letter stands for geometry, described as being the "noblest of sciences", and "the basis upon which the superstructure of freemasonry is erected." the plaque was inset (i.e. recessed) into the facade of the single story brick building. surface wear and discoloration caused by prolonged exposure to the outdoor elements. the exact fabricator and/or building architect is not known. measures approximately 16 x 1 1/4 x 24 1/2 inches.