Contents of the book:
As the title of the book already explains, the book deals with the order of the five types of columns according to the ancient method. The book by Claude Perrault explains the 5 types of columns, analyzes their forms, differences and masses. Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite. The book is dedicated to the Minister of Economy Colbert and was approved by King Louis XIV himself.
Organization of the book:
The book consists of a 27-page introduction. The main part was divided into two parts. In the first part, the columns are generally compared with different tables. The author takes the data from many old books, such as Palladio and Vitruvius. In the second part, the individual column types are examined individually and described in detail. Each chapter has the same structure. The topics of the column are always analyzed in the same order. At the end of each chapter there is a very precise copper engraving. Last but not least the relationship in the modern age is included.
Size of the book:
The book is 36.6 cm long, 25.5 cm wide and 3.2 cm thick. It is bound in leather and has a gilded spine.
Page number and illustrations:
The book consists of 124 pages. It has 8 tables and 14 illustrations. Half of them are woodcuts and the other half are copper engravings.