Classical Orders / Column head
Capital
/ˈkæp.ɪ.təl/noun
From Latin capitellum, “little head.”
Definition
The uppermost member of a column or pilaster, mediating between the shaft and the load it carries. Its form is a primary marker of the classical order: Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian.
Fig. 33 — Capital: schematic studyNOT TO SCALE
Illustrative study — Capital · AI-generatedSAMPLE IMAGE
Photo study — Capital · AI-generated00:06
Structural & construction notes
The capital widens the bearing area beneath the architrave. In masonry it is usually carved from a separate block and set on the shaft with a bedding joint.
An educational reference. Project-specific design requires professional guidance.