Composition Mould

MediumCementitious material

DimensionsImpression: total = 5 5/8" (H) x 2 7/8" (W) x 3/8" (D) at deepest; urn = 4" (H) on a 1 5/8" (H) base; base: 2 1/4" (W); Overall mold: 6 3/4" (L) x 3 15/16" (W) x 1 3/8" (T)

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2651

DescriptionIt is a cementitious mold of a small urn with rams’ heads, scarf drops and festoons on a base with two panels centered in the middle. The urn is sitting in an acanthus leaf motif and has an acanthus leaf motif lid with a bead at the top. There are two swags with a bow centered and a bellflower drop from the bow. The rams’ heads are facing in opposite directions.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.