QG architecture. BOOK I. 



style. These are distinguished by different degrees of propor- 

 tion, or apparent fitness. They are called orders of architec- 

 ture, and are divided into three sorts. The first is the Doric ; 

 which has massy plain columns, and few ornaments on the su- 

 perincumbent parts. The second is the Corinthian ; which has 

 more slender columns, ornamented both on the bases and capi- 

 tals, and also on the superincumbent parts. The third is the 

 Ionic ; which is a medium between these two extremes. Many 

 make a variety of the Doric, which they call Tuscan ; and 

 another variety of the Corinthian, called the Composite ; but. 

 these are not materially different from the others. 



The proportions of these three orders apply not only to the 

 column, but also to the general masses; to the height and 

 breadth of all the openings, and to the projections of the cor- 

 nices. There are also particular kinds of bases and entabla- 

 tures adapted to each, that are of course always used in con- 

 nection with their proper order. Pedestals also have been 

 contrived for each of these orders ; but the idea of using them 

 is ridiculous in itself, and probably will not soon be revived. 

 In every thing except these pedestals, the orders of Grecian ar- 

 chitecture deserve to be studied, because their proportions are 

 naturally pleasing; and also because, from prejudice, habit, 

 and sympathy, they are become more agreeable to mankind 

 than any others. 



