Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumCompo (usually a combination of hide glue, pine rosin, chalk, and linseed oil); wood
DimensionsBase = 12" (L) x 6" (W) x 15/16 "(T). Reliefs = 3 7/16" (OD) and have smaller center rosettes that are 1 9/16" (OD) x 3/4" (deep).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.2899
DescriptionIt has two medium compo relief rosettes. Both sets of rosettes have 8 large petals each; they are located 5 5/8" on center attached to the backboard with 2 1/8" between the outer petals of the two large rosettes.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.
