Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumCompo (usually a combination of hide glue, pine rosin, chalk, and linseed oil); wood
DimensionsKeys: top is 2 1/8" (W) x 1 1/8" (H) x 1/4" (T). Relief: 11 1/2" (L) x 1 5/8" (W) x 1/16" (D). Base: 15" (L) x 3 1/2" (W) x 7/8" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.2865
DescriptionIt is a compo relief depicting a length of Greek keys created by five interlinked T-shaped forms creating double-reverse keys with a half image at each end. There are four complete keys. The keys are 2 7/8" on center. They are very sharply defined keys. It is applied to a single wooden base member.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.
