History
The composite order is the “newest” of the five orders, not being found in Greek architecture and not being classified into its own order until the Renaissance. The consensus is the earliest known example of the Composite order is the Arch of Titus, built in 82 AD. For the most part, it follows the same rules as the Corinthian order and is an extension of that order, but the capital is what sets it apart. The Composite Order capital essentially combines the Volutes of the Ionic order, with the Acanthus leaf design of the Corinthian, creating the most ornate of the capitals.
Composite Order Column Sizing
The Composite order follows the same sizing rules as the Corinthian, meaning it has a column height to diameter ratio of 10:1, with the capital making up 1/10th of the overall column height.Example: If your column is 8’ in height, it should have a diameter of 10”
Famous Examples
The Arch of Titus in Rome is the oldest known example of the Composite order, and was built by Emperor Domitian to honor his brother Titus after his death.
The Loggia del Capitaniato (the Captains Palace) is a historic building built in 1571-1572 in Vicenza, Italy. It was designed by famed Italian Architect Andrea Palladio, who was heavily influenced by Vitruvius and is considered one of the most important figures to Western Architecture.
