Composition Mould

MediumResin; Wood

DimensionsImpression: 7 3/4" (L) x 7/8" (H) x 1/8" (D). Insert: 8 3/8" (L) x 1 3/8" (H) x 3/8" (D). Base: 14 7/8" (L) x 4" (W) x 2" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2754

DescriptionIt is a resin mold with four connected swags with three scarf drops between and at one end. The field of each swag has 11 vertical pleats. The drops are secured at the top with a knot. The swags are 2" on center and measure 7/8" (D). The pleats are 1/8" (W) and the central pleat is 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.