Composition Mould

MediumResin; Wood

DimensionsImpression: 12 5/8" (L) x 2 1/2" (W) x 1 1/8" (D). Inset: 14" (L) x 3 3/8" (W) x 1 1/2" (D). Base: 18 1/4" (L) x 6 1/2" (W) x 3" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2685

DescriptionThis large resin mold is inset into a single piece wood base. It consists of three complete eggs and darts. The impressions are 4 1/4" on center. The eggs are 2 3/8" (H) x 2 1/8" (W) x 1 1/8" (D). The darts are 1 5/8" (W) at the head of the dart x 2 7/16" (L) from base to tip. The darts have a stem impression along their central lengths.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.