Capital

Capital — is the topmost part of a column, often richly decorated. Different eras and cultures brought their own aesthetics to the form of capitals: Ancient Greek Doric, Ionic, Corinthian — each type is easily recognizable. Capitals could be austere or ornate with acanthus leaves, animal heads, geometric motifs.

On porcelain vases or silver candlesticks, capital elements often serve as decorations for feet and handles, referencing architectural masterpieces of the past.

Interestingly, once an architect Felix Lang conceived to adorn the facade of a building with giant porcelain capitals — the project was deemed too avant-garde for its time!

Collectors appreciate such details in small forms: it is by the character of the capital that one can determine the era and style of an item.