Corinthian order

Temple of Bacchus at Baalbek

Corinthian order is one of the three principal Classical orders of ancient Greek architecture, the other two being the Doric order and the Ionic order. The Corinthian, with its ornate capital decorated with acanthus leaves and scrolls, is the most elaborate of the three orders. It was developed in the late Classical period, but it found its fullest expression and use in Roman architecture.

Origins and Development

The origins of the Corinthian order can be traced back to the late 5th century BC, although it did not gain widespread popularity until the Hellenistic period. According to a popular legend recounted by the Roman architect Vitruvius, the design of the Corinthian capital was inspired by a basket left on the grave of a young girl. An acanthus plant grew around the basket, and its leaves naturally formed the shape that would become characteristic of the Corinthian capital.

Despite its Greek origins, it was the Romans who fully embraced the Corinthian order and made it a staple of their architectural vocabulary. The flexibility and decorative potential of the Corinthian order made it particularly appealing for Roman builders and architects, who used it in a wide variety of buildings, from temples to basilicas, and from triumphal arches to monumental aqueducts.

Characteristics

The defining feature of the Corinthian order is its capital, which is more complex and ornate than those of the Doric and Ionic orders. The capital is characterized by two rows of acanthus leaves and four scrolls (or volutes). This elaborate capital sits atop a slender, fluted column that may also have a slight entasis (a slight bulge in the middle).

In addition to the distinctive capital, the Corinthian order often features a detailed and richly decorated entablature. The entablature typically consists of three parts: the architrave, the frieze, and the cornice, each of which may be elaborately carved with various decorative motifs.

Examples

One of the earliest and most famous examples of Corinthian order in Greek architecture is the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens, dating from 334 BC. However, the most prolific use of the Corinthian order is found in Roman architecture. Notable examples include the Temple of Mars Ultor in the Forum of Augustus and the Pantheon in Rome, with its massive Corinthian columns supporting the portico.

Influence

The Corinthian order has had a lasting impact on architectural styles and has been revived in various forms throughout history, particularly during the Renaissance and the Neoclassical period. Its elegance and ornamental richness have made it a symbol of sophistication and grandeur in architectural design.

See Also

• Classical architecture
• Doric order
• Ionic order
• Roman architecture
• Vitruvius