Handshake
Symbol of fraternity, its origin goes back to ancient times. Uniting
hands was an indication of good faith in agreements as it sealed marriages
among the Romans. The Freemasons used it as well in the most important
of their rites, the "chain of union" in which all members
hold hands.
Knot
It marks reunion.
Level
A tool of the mason, serving to verify the evenness of a surface. Utilized
in the rites of free masonry, it symbolized social equality, the basis
of natural rights.
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Heart
Traditional symbol of love. The metaphor of passion is rendered by
flames. On the altar of the nation, it signified love of country.
Hydra
Mythological monster with seven heads who regenerated another as soon
as one was cut off. It is the symbol of something monstrous, notably
despoism or aristocracy for the revolutionaries.
The
Liberty Tree
Planted as a symbol of life, it relates to national freedom and the
perpetuation of the Revolution and Republic. This image dates from 1792
when the Legislative Assembly made it official.
The tree takes on a sacred value and to knock it down became a criminal
act.
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