Roman Vs. Italian Columns

Roman Columns

• The first two forms of columns used by Greek society were the Doric and Ionic. The Doric column featured a plain capital on top of an undecorated shaft and it lacked any type of base. The Romans used the same type of column, but made a few specific changes. The new columns featured flutes around the edges that alternated in size and shape. The diameter determined the height of the column with the height eight times larger than the diameter. The Ionic columns created by the Romans featured more decorative shafts and a decorated base.

Corinthian Columns

• Corinthian columns feature more decoration than any of the other column types and appeared in both Roman and Italian cultures. The columns typically had a decorative base, fluted shafts and a highly ornate capital. The Romans made a few minor changes to the design, but kept the basic decorative elements. The Italians retained the same concept in their columns.

History

• The first recorded mention of the official names for each column type came during the Italian Renaissance. Giacomo Barozzio da Vignola created a list that described each type of column and assigned them one of three orders: Ionic, Doric or Corinthian. He also described the elements of each column, including the architectural proportions used by designers. The history of columns spread from Greek society to Roman society. As the Romans moved through different areas, they brought the columns with them. They created different forms of architecture that inspired others, including the Italians.

Form vs. Function

• The fundamental difference between Italian and Roman columns relates to form and function. The Romans used columns as decorative elements for buildings and as architectural elements. The Italians used columns for a more decorative feel and only in a few instances used columns for their intended purpose. The Church of Sant Andrea, built in 1470, used columns as load-bearing supports that kept the structure standing upright. Designer Leon Battista Alberti believed in creating buildings that stood for something or had some deeper meaning, rather than creating buildings that simply looked good or had beautiful elements. The columns supported the building, but also emphasized the larger sense of space both inside and outside the building. The vast space reminded visitors of the power of God.