Ionic columns have scrolls on their capitals.
Between the seventh and fifth centuries B.C., the Greeks developed three distinct architectural styles, or orders, in which they build temples and other important public buildings. In all three orders, columns were featured prominently along the outsides of buildings as well as in the interiors. The columns in each architectural order display distinctive features. The Greek Revival architectural style, developed in the 18th and early 19th centuries, also makes use of Greek-style columns.
Greek Column Design
Greek columns consist of three parts. The base forms the lowest part of the column. The shaft is the tall body of the column. At the top sits the capital, the design of which varies significantly in each of the three Greek architectural orders. The gradual development in column design, from simple to opulent, reflects changes in Greek society itself, notes travel expert Rick Steves in Rick Steves' Europe 101: History and Art for the Traveler.
Doric Columns
The Dorian Greeks developed these simple, sturdy columns by the end of the seventh century B.C. The shaft of a Doric column has 20 sides, which may be smooth or slightly fluted, meaning grooved. This style lacks a base and the capital consists of a plain disc with a square on top. To the ancient Greeks, Doric columns represented dignity and masculinity, explain William Duiker and Jackson Spielvogel in The Essential World History. The Parthenon in Athens displays some of the most famous examples of Doric columns.
Ionic Columns
Columns of the Ionic order are a product of the Ionian Greeks of Asia minor, today's Western Turkey. The shaft of this order is taller than in Doric columns, making Ionic columns look more slender. The shaft is fluted and the large base resembles stacked rings. The shaft bulges slightly in the center, a feature known as entasis, to make the column appear straight even at a distance. The capital has a scroll design meant to add a reserved beauty. These columns gave the impression of grace, freedom and femininity, Duiker and Spielvogel note. The Temple of Athena Nike in Athens provides an example of Ionic columns.
Corinthian Columns
Greeks began creating Corinthian columns in the fourth century B.C. Like the Ionic style, the Corinthian style also has a fluted shaft, incorporates entasis and has a base resembling stacked rings. The difference, however, is the highly ornamental design of the capital, which is embellished with stones carved to look like curling acanthus leaves. The Temple of Zeus in Athens features Corinthian columns.
