Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Wood
DimensionsBase = three boards together = 19" (L) x 6 7/8" (W) x 2 3/16" (T); mold inset = 14 11/16" (L) x 3 3/16" (W) x minimum 1 7/16" (D); lambs tongue motif = 2" on center and dimensions of mold = 12 3/4" (L) x 2" (W); barrels = 3/8" (W) x 3/4" (L); beads = 3/8" (L) x 1/8" (W); the beads run 1" on center of lambs tongues. Total length of barrels and beads = 13 3/8" (L).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.3008
DescriptionIt is a lamb's tongue length (5 connected complete lamb's tongues and half tongues on each end). At the bottom is a length of barrel and bead motif (13 barrels and 13 beads), and 2 barrels and 1 bead are centered over each lamb tongue. This resin mold is set into the wooden base.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.
