Composition Mould

MediumResin; Compo (usually a combination of hide glue, pine rosin, chalk, and linseed oil); Wood

DimensionsBase: 20 5/8" (L) x 3 1/2" (W) x 1 1/2" (T). Egg and dart = 5 1/4" (L) x 1 1/4" (W) x 1/2" (D). Eggs = 1 3/8" (H) x 1 1/2" (W). Darts = 1 3/8" (H) x 5/8" (W).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.3089

DescriptionIt has two molds: (1) egg and dart; (2) unable to determine the motif based on compo residue still adhered to it. There is one carved negative of egg and dart (two full eggs and two full darts, both at 2" on center) and an inset block of resin with composite residue. The inset appears to have a lambs tongue motif. The inset is 5 1/8" (L) x 2 3/8" (W) x 3/4" (D). There is a ghosting of four lambs tongues remaining at the bottom of the inset and are 3/4" on center. There are two through bolts and four shims holding the base together.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.