Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Wood
DimensionsImpression: 2 3/4" (H) x 1 3/16" (W) x 1/2" (D). Inset: 4 1/8" (L) x 2" (W) x 3/4" (D). Base 11" (L) x 6" (W) x 2 3/4" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.2495
DescriptionIt is a resin impression of a short, simplified acanthus leaf column. There are three levels of tri-segmented leaves. There is no stem and no veining. It is set into a multi-part wooden base. It is inserted in the same wooden base as AF-X2023.2494.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.
