Composition Mould

MediumCementitious material; Wood

DimensionsImpression: 7" (L) x 3" (H) at the bottom of the scrolls x 1 3/8" (D) at the far edges. Base: 9" (L) x 5 3/8" (W) x 2 3/8" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2584

DescriptionThis cementitious mould of an ornate ionic capital has an acanthus blossom at the top, center over three eggs and two darts that are over 7 beads. It is a full blossom over a base petal with a single long leaf extending on each side of the blossom. The ionic scroll on each side starts at the top of the egg and dart motif and swirls to the outside. The two scrolls are extensions of the acanthus leaves which curl into the scroll on each side of the impression. The central acanthus blossom is applied on top of a double band at the top. There are three small wood support strips captured by the cementitious material on the rear face.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.