<P> The Ionic order forms one of the three classical orders of classical architecture, the other two canonic orders being the Doric and the Corinthian . There are two lesser orders: the Tuscan (a plainer Doric), and the rich variant of Corinthian called the composite order, both added by 16th - century Italian architectural writers, based on Roman practice . Of the three canonic orders, the Ionic order has the narrowest columns . </P> <P> The Ionic capital is characterized by the use of volutes . The Ionic columns normally stand on a base which separates the shaft of the column from the stylobate or platform; the cap is usually enriched with egg - and - dart . </P> <P> Since Vitruvius a female character has been ascribed to the Ionic, in contrast to the masculine Doric . </P>

A distinctive characteristic of an lonic greek column is the use of