Composition Mould

MediumResin; Wood; Paint

Dimensions(A) 4 5/8" (L) x 1 7/8" (W) at the loop x 3/16" (deep at the center). (B) 6" (L) x 7/8" (W) at the fringe x 1/4" (D). (C) and (D) 12 1/4" (L) x 1 1/4" (W) at the largest blossom x 1/2" (D). (E) 5 1/2" (L) x 1" (W) at the fringe x 3/16" (D).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.1033

DescriptionThe mould has five individual resin impressions: (A) a bow; (B) a scarf drop with knotted top; (C) and (D) swags with seven bell flowers each; (E) a scarf drop. Impressions: (A) It is a two-loop bow with a central knot consisting of crimped ribbon. (B) It is a single scarf with a knot at the top and a fringed bottom edge. (C) and (D) They each have seven bellflower blossoms with a bead/berry separating each blossom (8 in all). Each swag has a straight stem segment. (E) It is a single scarf with a flat top and a fringed bottom edge. The resin is set into an 11-piece wood base.Label TextThis antique composition mould represents a trade that was practiced in Virginia during the Revolutionary period and into the 19th century. It depicts a common design found in upper class homes and public buildings. Composition was a substitute for more laboriously produced ornamental plaster and carved wood and stone.

It is thought that the Adam brothers (Robert Adam 1728-1792) and John Adam (1721-1792)) played a major role in the initial manufacture of composition ornament on a grand scale. The Adam style demanded a large amount of delicate low-relief ornament. These moulds are for the production of such ornament in plaster, or in composition, usually a combination of whiting, glue, rosin and oil. The finished ornament was used on furniture and other objects as well as in the decoration of rooms.