Mopses, Order of the

A secret association founded in Germany in the eighteenth century, spreading through Holland, Belgium, and France. It was popularly believed to be a black magic order, replacing the Satanic goat with a dog as an object of worship. However, it seems clear that it was really a somewhat whimsical crypto-Masonic order, founded partially in reaction to the papal bull of Pope Clement XII on April 24, 1738, which condemned Freemasonry. Immediately after their establishment, they departed from Masonic tradition by admitting females to membership and to all the offices, except that of Grand Master, which was for life. They did, however, create a new office of Grand Mistress, elected every six months.

The ceremonies were a unique variation on Masonic ritual, which probably gave rise to rumors of its worshipping a dog. The candidate for admission did not knock, but had to scratch at the door, and, being purposely kept waiting, was obliged to bark like a dog. On being admitted into the lodge, he had a collar placed round his neck, to which a chain was attached. He was blindfolded and led nine times round the room, while the Mopses present made as great a din as possible with sticks, swords, chains, shovels, and dismal howlings. The candidate was then questioned as to his intentions, and having replied that he desired to become a "Mops," was asked by the master whether he was prepared to kiss the most ignoble part of that animal. Of course this raised the candidate's anger, but in spite of his resistance, the model of a dog, made of wax, wood, or some other material, was pushed against his face. Having taken the oath, he had his eyes unbandaged, and was then taught the secret signs.