This volume focusses on ashlar masonry, probably the most elaborate construction technique of the Eastern Mediterranean Bronze Age, from a cross-regional perspective. The building practices and the uses of cutstone components and masonries in Egypt, Syria, the Aegean, Anatolia, Cyprus and the Levant in the 3rd and 2nd millennium BC are examined through a series of case studies and topical essays. The topics addressed include the terminology of ashlar building components and the typologies of its masonries, technical studies on the procurement, dressing, tool kits and construction techniques pertaining to cut stone, investigations into the place of ashlar in inter-regional exchanges and craft dissemination, the extent and signifi cance of the use of cut stone within the communities and regions, and the visual eff ects, social meanings, and symbolic and ideological values of ashlar.

Sharing his observations from his historied Masonic career, Confessions of a flawed Ashlar is Bill Hosler's love letter to Freemasonry. Bill blends fiction and non-fiction to tell poignant stories about the mystic tie of brotherhood. While so many modern Masonic writings look externally for solutions to some of Freemasonry's issues, Bill looks internally finding them readily available at the local Lodge level. His friendly and humorous prose makes for an easy read. Both the novice and experienced Freemason will find wisdom in this book.