Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumPine
DimensionsCarving: 13 5/8" (L) x 1 1/8" (W) x 5/8" (D). Overall piece: 15 15/16" (L) x 2 1/2" (W) x 3/4" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.1661
DescriptionIt is a wooden linear relief of lambs tongues separated by acanthus leaves. It is carved out of a single piece of wood. There are 8 1/2 lambs tongues separated by 8 tri-part acanthus leaves.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.
