Marble pilaster capital
The capital was once set against a wall, crowning a rectangular semi-detached pilaster. In Roman architecture three major orders of capitals were used—Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. This pilaster capital is a fine example of the most elaborate, the Corinthian order. Three acanthus leaves rise from the base and two flowers on delicately carved stems curl upward between them. A classical molding with stylized lotus flowers over a band of bead and reel separates the lower part of the capital from the two volutes around which a leafy vine entwines. At the top, a single flower decorates the center of the straight abacus.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.