Capital

In architecture, the feature that most readily distinguishes the Classical order: the top member of a column pier anta pilaster or other columnar form which supports a horizontal member (entablature) or arch above. A capital is usually made of wood or stone and its decoration was according to the Corinthian Doric or Ionic order.

In architecture, the decorative topmember of a column, usually made of wood or stone. Portraying a moulded part (echinus) below, and a flat slab (abacus) above, it eases the visual transition from column shaft to the roofing beam (architrave) above. Decoration was normally according to one of the so-called orders, such as Corinthian, Doric or Ionic.