Introduction: A History of Corinthian Columns
Corinthian is third order of Grecian architecture. Doric and Ionic are the orders preceding the Corinthian column; they are the first and second innovations of architectural design. This form of construction introduced stone as a building material as opposed to wood, thus instigating architects to carve and create new designs for stone columns. Doric and Ionic columns have identifiably larger proportioned structures comparatively to Corinthian columns.
A Brief History
Corinthian columns are distinguishable by a tall flute and ornate detailing specifically carved with acanthus leaves, to appear as growing up and around the capital. It is documented by Vitruvius, an architectural writer, that the acanthus leaf design was first sketched by sculptor Callimachus in the 1st century B.C.E. in the Greek city of Corinth. Legend has it that Callimachus’s Corinthian design was inspired by his observation of a young lady placing a basket of flowers on the grave of her beloved, and that the leaves that surrounded the stone provided his artistic vision. Greek architecture inspired the Romans and is reflected in one of the best-preserved Roman temples, Maison Carée in Nimes, France.
Corinthian Architecture
The acanthus design was frequently reproduced in building design in palaces, hotels, and eccentric mansions, and eventually into ornaments and art. A gothic stylisation of the acanthus leaves was worked into bordering details on handwritten manuscripts, into portrait paintings and in-cooperated into the exterior of buildings for worship. Entering the fashionable age of Baroque decoration, the acanthus leaf was fashionably carved into furniture, mirrors, cabinets, seating, vases, and surrounding mascaron ornaments. The stunning leaf motif effectively became refined by designers and gilded to render a handsome quality as a selling point for commodities during the Rococo and Neo-classical era
Corinthian Design Seen Today
Around 1820 Buckingham House was destroyed and, in its place, Buckingham Palace was constructed. Architect John Nash, invested £496,160 in the development of Buckingham Palace. His exquisite detailing expanded the building and nascent the infamous Marble Arch, built with Corinthian style.
The Palace was further shaped by architects, Edward Blore, Thomas Cubitt and Aston Webb. The developments of Corinthian Columns for exterior and interior in the Palace signify this form of design as an inseparable quality of what it means to be royalty. The style influenced recognised society, who gathered at the residency of John Campbell, which was chosen as a venue for the Argyll Rooms. The fashionable society of Regency London attended balls, masquerades, and concerts in the Argyll rooms. The interior of Campbells house replicated royal interior, with pillars carved with Corinthian floridity in the entrance hall and decorated with Gilt Corinthian oil lamps. The décor of the Argyll rooms enabled a prolific community to attract a reputation of highness and nobility.
Shackleton Fox’s range of Corinthian Lamps
Before all lamps were electrical, oil lamps were the main source of illumination. The basic oil lamp was simplified and minimal by design, and most affordable. However fashionable oil lamps and candelabras were designed for the elite society who could afford to décor out their home with expensive furnishings. Many Corinthian style lamps on sale today are conversions from what was previously powered by oil.
The Antique Silver Plated Neoclassical Corinthian Table Lamp listed at Shackleton Fox has been transformed from a brass oil lamp to a modern functioning table light fixture.
Pair of Brass Corinthian Antique Table Lamps
This exquisite couple of late 19th Century Corinthian table lamps are conveniently suited for a modern home, with electrical fixtures added. At 42cm in height they provide character and statement for small and larger spaces, sitting perfectly over a fireplace, windowsill or at a tableside.
Explore our Corinthian Lamps at Shackleton Fox
Written by Guest Blogger: Anya Tindale
