Composition Mould

MediumCompo (usually a combination of hide glue, pine rosin, chalk, and linseed oil); wood

DimensionsBase (single piece of wood) = 13 1/8" (L) x 5 1/2" (W) x 3/8" (T). Overall Relief = 10 3/16" (L) x 3 1/2" (W) x 1/8" (T). Ribbons = 1/2" (W) x 1/8" (T). Large circles = 3 1/2" (OD) x 2 1/2" (ID). Small circles = 1 5/8" (OD) x 5/8" (ID).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.3090

DescriptionThis is a compo relief guilloche of medium circles (interwoven double string/ribbon) creating a small circle/bead (4) within a large circle. (4). The circles are about 2 3/16" on center. There are two small areas of compo loss.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.