Composition Mould

MediumWood; Shellac

DimensionsBase = 11 5/8" (L) x 4 7/8" (W) x 1 1/2" (T) with three lengths of molding glued to the top face. Larger egg and dart = 11 5/8" x 1 9/16" (W) x 7/8" (T) and each egg is 1 1/2" (L) x 2 1/4" (W) x 5/8" (D) and 2 5/8" on center; each dart is 1 1/2" (L) x 3/4" (W) x 5/8" (D) and 2 5/8" on center. Smaller egg and dart = 11 5/8" (L) x 1 5/8" (W) x 7/8" (T) and each egg is 1 1/4" (L) x 2 3/4" (W) x 3/8" (D) and 2" on center; each dart is 1 1/4" (L) x 5/8" (W) x 3/8" (D) and 2" on center. Garland and swag = 11 5/8" (L) x 1 5/8" (W) x 3/4" (D); swag = 2 3/16" (L) on center x 5/8" (W) x 7/16" (T) at bottom of drape and the drop is 3/4" (T) x 3/16" (W); garland = 3 1/2" (L) x 5/8" (W) x 3/16" (D).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.3078

DescriptionIt has four individual molds: (1) run of four eggs and darts; (1) run of five eggs and darts; (1) swag; and (1) garland. The swag and garland motifs are carved in the same wood strip. The garland has one blossom at one end and the rest is vine and leaves.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.