Composition Mould

MediumResin; Pine

DimensionsMeasurements: (A) Impression: (A) 4 11/16" (L) x 1 5/16" (W) x 1/4" (D) at the center oval. Inset: 5 1/2" (H) x 3 5/8" (W) including (B) x 3/16" (D). (B) Impression: 2" (L) x 1 1/4" (W) x 3/16" (D). Inset (B) 2 5/8" (H) x 1 5/8" (W) x 3/16" (D). (C) Impression: 4 1/2" (L) x 1 1/2" (H) x 5/8" (D). Inset: 5 3/4" (L) x 2 1/8" (H) x 3/4" (T). (D) Impression: pineapple: 1 1/8" (H) x 1 1/16" (W) x 5/8" (D); two-part base: 7/8" (H) x 7/8" (W) x 1/4" (D). Overall impression: 2" (H) x 1" (W) x 5/8" (D). Oval Inset: 2 7/8" (L) x 1 7/8" (W) x 3/4" (D). Base: 15 1/4" (L) x 6 7/16" (W) x 1 1/4" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2390

DescriptionIt is four small resin moulds set into a wooden base. The impressions are: (A) an elongated rectangular leaf rosette; (B) a smaller rectangular leaf rosette; (C) an impressed arc of two lambs’ tongues and three darts; and (D) a small pineapple finial. The inset of (A) and (B) are contiguous and form the letter "L" in shape.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.