To sum up a simple classification, which may be termed the triology of the orders, will be found to assist the memory.
The Orders commonly employed are three—the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. (There are two others which are less used, and are really derived from the other three: they are the Tuscan, which is a form of debased Doric, and the Composite, which is made up of the Ionic and Corinthian).
The Order may be divided into three parts:
Pedestal, Column and Entablature.
These may again be sub-divided.
The Pedestal into Plinth, Die and Capping.
The Column into Base, Shaft and Capital.
The Entablature into Architrave, Frieze and Cornice.
The method of arriving at the proportions of the order is as follows. In this division the pedestal is not taken into account, but is reserved for later consideration.