Composition Mould

MediumResin; Wood; Stain/Paint

DimensionsJoint impression: 9 7/8" (L) x 6" (W) x 3/16" (deep). Mold: 11" (L) x 8 1/4" (W). Base: 15" (L) x 11 1/2" (W) x 3" (T).

Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim

Object numberAF-X2023.3478B

DescriptionThe overall mould consists of two different molds set into one wooden base. The moulds are on opposite faces. (B)This is a laurel spray with berries connected at the cut end of the stem to a looped ribbon that runs in the same direction as the spray. There are 8 double leaf sets with 16 berries along the stem. There is one full loop in the ribbon near the stem end and all the ribbon has fold impressions. Joint impression: 9 7/8" (L) x 6" (W) x 3/16" (deep). Mold: 11" (L) x 8 1/4" (W). Base: 15" (L) x 11 1/2" (W) x 3" (T). On the opposite face is a Greek/Roman full-height male figure (A).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.