Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Wood
DimensionsImpression: 9 15/16" (L) x 1 7/8" (W) x 3/16" (D). Mold: 11 3/8" (L) x 2 1/4" (W) x 3/8" (D). Base: 15 1/2" (L) x 4 5/8" (W) x 2" (D).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.2676
DescriptionIt is a resin impression of a length of Greek keys created by five interlinked T-shaped forms creating double-reverse keys with a half image at each end. The keys are 3 5/16" on center. They are very sharply defined keys. It is set in a single wooden member.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.
