Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumPine
DimensionsOverall Carving: 4 3/4" (W) x 2 3/8" (H) x 1/8" (T). Inner fillet dimensions are 3 1/4" (W) x 1 3/8" (H) x 1/16" (T). Central oval: 1 1/8" (L) x 5/8" (H) x 1/16" (D). Plank: 7 5/16" (L) x 4 7/8" (W) x 7/8" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.2309
DescriptionIt is a wooden carving of a fluted, two-layer oval medallion with a flat oval center (carved out of a single wooden plank). There are 24 scalloped-edged outer flutes and 24 smaller fillets. The flutes and fillets are bordered by ridges.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.
