Column cylindrical disks of alternating diameter. The shaft is almost never fluted. The proportions vary, but are generally similar to Doric columns. Height to width ratio is about 7:1. The Ionic column is considerably more complex than the Doric or Tuscan. It usually has a base and the shaft is often fluted (it has grooves carved up its length). The capital features a volute, an ornament shaped like a scroll, at the four corners. The height-to-thickness ratio is around 9:1. Due to the more refined proportions and scroll capitals, the Ionic column is sometimes associated with academic buildings. Ionic style columns
The Five Orders of Architecture five orders, with indication of their shadows and the first principles of construction"; "The Five Orders of Architecture according to Giacomo Barozzio of Vignola, to Which are Added the Greek Orders"; and "The five orders of architecture, the casting of shadows and the first principles of construction based on the system of Vignola". The book tackles the five orders, Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite in separate sections, each subdivided in five parts on the colonnade, arcade, arcade with pedestal, individual pedestals, and entablatures and capitals. Following those 25 sections were some less related parts on cornices and other elements.