Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Wood
DimensionsImpression: 13 3/8" (L) x 2 1/16" (W) x 3/16" (D). Inset: 14 1/4" (L) x 2 3/4" (W) x 1/2" (D). Base: 17 3/8" (L) x 5 11/16" (W) x 2 1/4" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.2463
DescriptionIt is a resin impression of a length of Greek keys. There are six complete keys with a 3/4" key at one end and 1/4" part of a key at the opposite end. The keys are 2 3/8" on center. They are very sharply defined keys. It is a multi-part wooden base.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.
Mid 18th c.
