Composition Mould

MediumResin; Pine

DimensionsImpression: 2 5/8" (L) x 1 1/8" (W) x 1/2" (D). Inset: 2 7/8" (L) x 1 3/8" (W) x 3/4" (D). Base: 6 3/4" (L) x 3 1/4" (W) x 2 7/8" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2693

DescriptionThis is a resin impress of elongated egg and dart motif. There are three eggs and four darts. The eggs are 1" (L) x 1/2" (W) x 1/2" (D) and are 1 13/16" on center. The darts are 1 1/16" (L) x 3/8" (W) at the tip x 1/2" (D).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.