Composition Mould

MediumBoxwood; Pine

DimensionsCarving: (outer dimensions of flutes) 5 3/8" (W) x 2 3/8" (H). Fillet layer: 3 1/8" (W) x 1 1/2" (H). Central oval: 1" (L) x 3/8" (H) x 3/8" (D). Inset: 8 13/16" (L) x 3 9/16" (W) x 3/4" (D). Base: 13 1/2" (L) x 6 3/4" (W) x 2 1/16" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2320

DescriptionIt is a boxwood carved relief of an oval medallion. The boxwood is set into a multi-part wooden base. The medallion is two-layered. The outer layer consists of 36 scalloped-edged flutes. The inner layer consists of 36 fillets surrounding 14 petals that are around a domed, oval center. 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.