Mucha's sensitive and meditative spirit drew him to the esoteric aspects of Freemasonry. He was initiated to a Masonic Lodge in Paris in 1898. The influence of Masonic symbolism is evident throughout his work, especially in his decorated book Le Pater.

After the formation of Czechoslovakia in 1918 Mucha was instrumental in establishing the first Czech-speaking Lodge, the Komensky Lodge in Prague, and he soon became Sovereign Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite Freemasonry for Czechoslovakia. He later became the second Sovereign Grand Commander of Czechoslovakia.

This self-portrait captures him in ceremonial Masonic regalia complete woith the hat, jewels and sash decorated with the embroidered number '33' indicating the highest rask of the Scottish Rite, surrounded by the sacred triangle. Standing in front of Art Nouveau style wallpaper, Mucha deliberately framed himself against an aureole made of stars, a signature motif of the 'style Mucha'.