Composition Mould

MediumCompo (usually a combination of hide glue, pine rosin, chalk, and linseed oil); wood

DimensionsRelief: 14 3/8" (L) x 2 1/2" (H) x 5/8" (D). Base: 19" (L) x 4" (W) x 7/8" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.2806

DescriptionIt is a compo relief consisting of four eggs and four acanthus leaf and bead drops applied to a wood base. The eggs are 3 1/2" on center and 2 5/16" (H) x 2 1/2" (W). The drops are folded acanthus leaves topped with two beads. The leaves are 2" (W) along the leaf edge and 1 1/2" (H) and the two beads together are 3/4" (H) and 5/16" in diameter.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.