Corinthian Capital
The Corinthian capital differs widely from those of the preceding orders in proportion and detail.
Its general form may be described as a bell, which is circular on plan. It springs from the upper extremity of the shaft, from which it is separated by a necking moulding.
Under the abacus it terminates in a fillet.
The bell is one diameter high. The height of the abacus is one-sixth of a diameter in addition; on plan the abacus falls within a square, having four concave faces with short straight lines at the angles. The distance across the diagonal is two diameters. The bell is clothed with leaves of acanthus type, which are arranged in two tiers of eight leaves each. Between the upper leaves are eight stems with husks and branching scrolls, which terminate in volutes at the angles and centres.
The necking moulding consists of a small torus and fillet.
Although the arrangement of the principal features of the Corinthian capital is horizontal, yet owing to the channelling of the leaves and the firmly springing scrolls the vertical direction appears to predominate.
This verticality emphasises the function of the capital as a supporting feature, and is æsthetically satisfactory, being in harmony with the flutings of the shaft.
No. 163. Corinthian Capital.
The effect produced by the capitals of the other two orders is horizontal, and suggests the idea of binding. They are equally satisfactory as giving contrast of direction.
No. 164. Corinthian Capital.
Detail giving divisions of height, and profiles.