Composition Mould

MediumResin; Pine

DimensionsImpression: 10 1/2" (L) x 4 15/16" (W) x 3/4" (D). Overall: 17 3/16" (L) x 7" (W) x 2 5/8" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.1964A

DescriptionIt is a large double-looped bow made of crimped ribbon with a center knot and two streamers. Loop is (from the center line of the knot) 4 3/4" (W) x 4 3/8" (H) and the crimped ribbon is 3/4" (W) and the central knot is circular with OD of 1 1/4" and ID of 5/8". The streamers are 2" (L) with "V" notched ends. The depth of the crimped ribbon on the outside edges of the loops is 3/8" deep and 3/16" deep at the center of the knot.

The mould AF-X2023.1964B is set into the reverse face of this mould.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.