Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Wood
DimensionsCenter shell = 1 1/4" (H) x 1 3/8" (W) x 1/4" (D). Mold: 13" (L) x 2 1/2" (W). Base: 17 3/16" (L) x 6 5/8" (W) x 2 7/16" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.3487
DescriptionIt is a resin mould set into a solid wood base. The linear mould has 7 clam shells. Each shell has subtle differences in shell striations and at the hinged bases as expected with hand molded impressions.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.
