Composition Mould
OriginEngland or America
MediumResin; Wood
DimensionsImpression: 9 7/8" (W) x 4 3/4" (H) x 1/2" (D at the center). Inset: 11 1/2" (L) x 6 1/2" (H). Base: 14" (L) x 9 5/16" (W) x 1 3/4" (T).
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Elias Nassim
Object numberAF-X2023.3497
DescriptionIt is a large resin urn set into a single pine base. The urn has fruits (a pomegranate, grapes, and a peach), flowers, nuts, and leaves in the bowl. There is a fabric swag tied at the center line of the bowl with a swag on each side of the outer edges of the urn ending in a two-loop ribbon on each end and a fabric drop off each loop. The bottom of the urn has 18 scallops above the single level foot.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.
