Architectural Columns

Architectural columns have been popular since very ancient times. The styles of columns have remained pretty much the same. However, many of the materials that have been used since the Greeks and Romans began creating these magnificent columns has gone through many changes over the years. It is common now to see columns built of wood and decorated with carved wood sculptures and decoration.

The Corinthian columns of ancient Corinth were very elaborate to accommodate the very elite and wealthy people of Corinth. These columns were very gracefully fluted and slim. They were decorated with carvings of Acanthus leaves, which was the style of Corinthian art.

The Doric columns of the Dorian people were much more simple and lacked the elaborate decorations of the Corinthian columns.

The Ionic columns went one step further by showing elaborate carvings of ornamental scrolls and spiral decorations.

The Tuscan columns of the people of Tuscany were even less elaborate than the Doric columns. These Roman columns had smooth sides and only contained ring forms at the top. There were no other decorations.

The Composite columns were just that , a composite of the elaborate decoration of the Ionic and Corinthian columns. These columns were fluted and slim and also had Acanthus leaves , scrolls and other elaborate decoration at the top or capital of the column.

Many buildings and homes today imitate the ancient Greek and Roman architectural columns. Several of the gracious southern mansions have multiple columns on their grand verandas and porches, acting as a constant reminder of ancient cultures.