Composition Mould

MediumResin; Wood

DimensionsInset: 6 7/8" x 6 7/8" x 3/4". Base: 9 3/4" (L) x 9 5/8" (W) x 1 3/4" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2691

DescriptionThis is a resin mold of an acanthus leaf rosette. It is set into a single wooden base. The floral motif consists of an acanthus bud surrounded by four spreading acanthus leaves. The flower consists of four acanthus leaves on the quarter points separated by dart-shaped leaves on the quarter points. It consists of a central flower surrounded by four multi-segmented acanthus leaves. The bud has eight petals enclosing eight bead-like pistils. The motif is surrounded by an impressed rim. Impression: bud: 1 7/8" in diameter x 1/2" deep. outer rim: 6" in diameter and the inner dimension of the rim is 5 1/2" x 3/16" (D). Acanthus leaves: 5 3/8" in diameter x 1/2 deep.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.