The upper termination of a column is a Capital. The Capital forms the transition from the supporting Shaft to the superincumbent Weight. This transition may assume either geometrical or organic forms. Very frequently both systems are combined; so that, strictly speaking, we can only say that one system or the other predominates.

Egyptian Capital
Is suggested by the cinctured bundle of Papyrus stems with buds, or with open Lotus or Papyrus flowers.

Abnormal Capitals
Are found in the Old Persian style. The example from Persepolis is composed of the fore-parts of Bulls.

Oriental Forms
The Moorish Capitals from the Alhambra in Granada are good examples.

Antique Art
Adopts three general types of Capital : Doric, Ionic & Corinthian.