Composition Mould

MediumCementitious material

DimensionsImpression: Overall: 4 3/4" x 4 3/4" x 6 1/4" (diagonally) x 3/16" (D) and the central bead is 7/8" in diameter. Corner leaves: 2 5/8" (L) x 2 3/8" (W) x 3/16" (D) at the curved tips. Overall cementitious mould: 5 1/2" x 6" x 15/16" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2525

DescriptionIt is a cementitious square acanthus leaf rosette (or boss) impression. It consists of four corner acanthus leaves separated by a flat petal with a curled tip on each side with a central large bead. The leaves are large and well defined. Each leaf has a central stem with curled tip and one leaf segment on each side of the stem. Each leaf has a multi-tipped segment at the base of the stem.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.