What is a spiral, scroll-like ornament, as on the capitals of the Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite Orders?

What is a volutes?

What is a spiral, scroll-like ornament, as on the capitals of the Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite Orders?

Answer

A spiral, scroll-like ornament on the capitals of Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite Orders is called a volutes.

A spiral, scroll-like ornament, as on the capitals of the Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite Orders, is known as a volutes. In the Ionian order, these volutes are prominent features of the capital, often resembling scrolls or cinnamon rolls. The Corinthian order, typically recognized by its relatively ornate capitals featuring acanthus leaves, and the Composite order, also exhibit this decorative element, although it is combined with other features. For instance, the Corinthian capital includes acanthus leaves that grow around it, finishing below the abacus.

The Doric order, on the other hand, is recognized by its plain capital and fluted columns with a frieze composed of triglyphs and metopes. The Corinthian order capital is elaborate, incorporating vegetal elements more extensively than the Ionic, and was particularly favored by the Romans.