Which Roman classical order is described as having a simple unfluted shaft and minimal ornament?

Which Roman classical order is described as having a simple unfluted shaft and minimal ornament?

• A. Doric
• B. Tuscan
• C. Ionic
• D. Corinthian

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is recognizing the simplest Roman classical order, distinguished by a plain, unfluted shaft and very little ornament. The Tuscan order fits this description precisely: it is a Roman adaptation of the Doric that removes fluting from the shaft and keeps the detailing minimal, with a straightforward base and a simple capital. This pared‑down look makes it the most austere of the main orders, aiming for clean, solid legibility rather than decorative flourish. Other orders emphasize more decoration: Doric typically has a sturdy feel with a fluted shaft and a relatively plain capital, Ionic uses volutes on the capital and more ornament, and Corinthian is known for its highly ornate acanthus-leaf capital. So the plain, unfluted shaft and minimal ornament point directly to the Tuscan order.

The main idea here is recognizing the simplest Roman classical order, distinguished by a plain, unfluted shaft and very little ornament. The Tuscan order fits this description precisely: it is a Roman adaptation of the Doric that removes fluting from the shaft and keeps the detailing minimal, with a straightforward base and a simple capital. This pared‑down look makes it the most austere of the main orders, aiming for clean, solid legibility rather than decorative flourish.

Other orders emphasize more decoration: Doric typically has a sturdy feel with a fluted shaft and a relatively plain capital, Ionic uses volutes on the capital and more ornament, and Corinthian is known for its highly ornate acanthus-leaf capital. So the plain, unfluted shaft and minimal ornament point directly to the Tuscan order.