Composition Mould

MediumWood

DimensionsCarving: 16" (L) x 1/2" (W) x 3/8" (H). Base: 18 1/8" (L) x 2 1/2" (W) x 3/4" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2737

DescriptionIt is a wooden carving of mini leaf and bead motif length applied to a single wood base. There are 54 1/2 leaves. In the obverse, the leaves are very geometric with a curved base and a flat top. It is carved to be applied to furniture or picture frames (not impressed). The leaves are 3/16" on center and they measure 9/32" (H) x 1/4" (W) x 5/32" (T) along one edge and 3/32" (T) at the other edge.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.