Corinthian Order

Definition

The Corinthian Order is one of the classical orders of ancient Greek architecture, characterized by its ornate and elaborate style. It features a slender column with a base and capital adorned with acanthus leaves and scrolls. This style is considered the most decorative of the three main orders, which also include the Doric and Ionic orders, reflecting a shift towards more elaborate design in ancient Greek art during the Hellenistic period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Corinthian Order emerged in the 5th century BCE and became widely used in Hellenistic architecture, particularly in temples and public buildings.
2. The capital of Corinthian columns features two rows of acanthus leaves and a central scroll, symbolizing wealth and grandeur.
3. Notable examples of the Corinthian Order can be seen in famous structures like the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens and the Pantheon in Rome.
4. The Corinthian style was favored by later Roman architects and became a hallmark of Roman architecture due to its ornate and luxurious appearance.
5. Unlike the Doric and Ionic orders, which were often used for temples dedicated to male gods, the Corinthian Order was frequently employed in structures dedicated to female deities and civic buildings.

Review Questions

• How does the Corinthian Order differ from the Doric and Ionic Orders in terms of design and usage?
  • The Corinthian Order stands out for its elaborate decoration compared to the Doric and Ionic Orders. While Doric columns are stout and unadorned, and Ionic columns have volutes on their capitals, Corinthian columns feature intricate acanthus leaf designs and scrolls. This ornate style made it popular for structures that symbolized wealth and grandeur, particularly during the Hellenistic period when art became more decorative.
• Discuss the cultural significance of the Corinthian Order in ancient Greek architecture during its time of popularity.
  • The rise of the Corinthian Order in ancient Greek architecture reflects a shift towards more elaborate artistic expression during the Hellenistic period. As Greek society evolved, there was an increasing appreciation for beauty and complexity in design. The use of this order indicated not just aesthetic values but also signified the power and wealth of those commissioning such structures. Temples using this order often celebrated feminine deities or civic ideals, aligning architectural grandeur with cultural significance.
• Evaluate the impact of the Corinthian Order on later architectural styles, especially during the Roman Empire.
  • The Corinthian Order had a profound influence on later architectural practices, particularly within the Roman Empire. Romans adopted and adapted this style, utilizing it extensively in their own public buildings and temples, which reflected their admiration for Greek artistry. The ornate elements of the Corinthian Order became synonymous with imperial grandeur, leading to its widespread use in structures like the Pantheon. This legacy continued into Renaissance architecture, where it inspired countless designs that emphasized symmetry and embellishment, showcasing how ancient Greek innovations shaped future architectural movements.

Related terms

Doric Order:

The Doric Order is the simplest and oldest of the classical architectural styles, known for its sturdy, fluted columns and plain capitals.

Ionic Order:

The Ionic Order is characterized by its more slender columns and distinctive volutes (scroll-like ornaments) on its capitals, making it more decorative than the Doric.

Acanthus: Acanthus is a plant whose leaves are often used as decorative motifs in classical architecture, particularly in the capitals of Corinthian columns.