Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Pine
DimensionsBowl/pedestal: 11" (W) x 6 3/4" (H) x 5/8" (D at the base of the pedestal and center of bowl). Topper: 2 7/8" (W) at base x 5/8" (H) and flame measures 2 1/8" (H) x 2" (W) x 3/8" (D). Inset: 12 3/8" (L) x 9 1/8" (H) x 1" (D). Base: 15" (L) 11 5/8" (W) x 2 3/4" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.1988
DescriptionIt is a resin impression of a large two-handled classical lamp form with a separate flame formed topper. The flame topper appears to be a resin replacement, possibly set individually and then set into the base with the bowl/pedestal. The lamp has scrolled handles with a single bead on each outer curve and 13 flutes on the base of the bowl and six flutes on the neck of the bowl. There is a two-level band separating the flutes of the bowl. The bowl sits on a typical single pedestal. The separate domed topper has flame extrusion. The wooden base is made up of 9 separate pieces held together with 8 stainless steel flat-head nails.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.
