Basic question about columns in architecture

ARC4 · #1 Posted **Jan 10, 2009, 9:33 AM**

If there are columns which do not reach the ground, is the bottom of the column still technically called the base?

Does the fancy stuff at the bottom of this column have other names?

Thanks

WilliamTheArtist · #2 Posted **Jan 10, 2009, 11:29 PM**

The column still has a base. The base is just sitting on the thingamajig. Sorry too lazy at the moment to look up or think of what the thingamajig is actually called lol.

MayDay · #3 Posted **Jan 10, 2009, 11:58 PM**

The entire "column" is actually a pilaster - since it doesn't serve as actual support for the structure: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilaster

But yes, the base of the pilaster is still a base.

ARC4 · #4 Posted **Jan 11, 2009, 7:32 AM**

Thanks

Can the thing underneath / supporting the base be called a corbel?

Also, I was reading that a column in the wall would be called an 'applied column', and it would only be a pilaster if it was rectangular? Maybe the term pilaster is used more widely now.

http://www.pitt.edu/~medart/menuglossary/PILASTER.HTM

http://www.pitt.edu/~medart/menuglossary/APP.HTM

Samthelima · #5 Posted **Jan 12, 2009, 5:40 PM**

Yes, it's an engaged (applied) column if it's round, and a pilaster if it's rectangular.