compound order


Composite order

Composite order In Classical architecture, one of the five Classical orders; combines characteristics of both the Corinthian and Ionic orders; similar to the Corinthian order, but much more embellished. The capital consists of volutes borrowed, with modifications, from the Ionic capital; the circle of acanthus leaves applied to the capital is borrowed from the Corinthian capital. See illustration under bases for an example of a base of the Composite order.