Composition Mould

MediumCompo (usually a combination of hide glue, pine rosin, chalk, and linseed oil); Pine

DimensionsRelief: 12 3/4" (L) x 1 1/4" (W) x 3/16” (T); Base: 15 1/16" (L) x 2 5/8" (W) x 3/4" (T)

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2342

DescriptionIt is a compo relief of double oval and single diamond guilloche. There are 7 double ovals and 6 diamonds. It is broken on both ends with chips missing throughout its length. The ovals and diamonds are 1 11/16" on center. The outer oval is 1 3/8" (L) x 7/8" (H). The inner oval is 1" (L) x 1/2" (H). The diamonds are 1 3/16" (L) x 5/16" (W)".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.