ABSTRACT
The purest elaboration of constant theme is the column and beam; for this reason, the arrangement of columns has become, as it were, the basso continuo of the whole of architecture. However, this surplus of support must not exceed a certain degree; otherwise it beholds support without load, which is contrary to the aesthetic purpose. The balconies protruding from the corners of many houses built in the tasteful style of the 'present day' offer our eye a shining example of load without support. In the twisted column, it is as if the lack of purpose makes its appearance in an intentionally defiant and therefore shameless manner; it is on account of this that good taste condemns it upon first glance. Even the hexagonal or octagonal pillar is more pleasing, because it is closer to the round column, for the form of the latter alone is determined exclusively by the purpose.
