Peter Simons Design

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Please select an image

Plaster Modelling, Mouldings and Restoration

The various forms of plasterwork, from hand modelled stucco to glass reinforced gypsum may all contain some kind of fibre for strength, and most lime mortar ceiling work contains enough animal hair to bind the plaster together between the lath, contributing to its flexible strength and therefore its characteristic longevity.

The technique of reinforcing gypsum plaster with hessian or canvas has been known and used for thousands of years, and probably predates the Pharaohs. Millar, writing in 1897, mentions mummers' masks found in Kahun dating from 4,500 years ago. 

In the past hundred years, fibrous plaster has come into its own, as increasingly flexible moulding compounds have made it possible to produce casts with fine sharp relief, undercut decoration, piercing and inlays, and modern plasters have increased strength and lightness. 

Some of the examples here show existing fireplace mouldings that have been repaired and renovated, and elements that have been remodelled cast and gilded to go above doorways to complete the overall sumptuous interior.

There is also a sequence of pictures which show the geometrically precise re-creation of a stone original pineapple in plaster.