korinthisch

Korinthisch (korinthisch) is the German term meaning "Corinthian" and is used to describe things related to the ancient Greek city of Corinth or its stylistic influence. The term appears in archaeology, art history, architecture, and classical studies. In architecture, korinthisch refers most often to the Corinthian order, one of the three principal classical orders along with Doric and Ionic. The Corinthian order is distinguished by an ornate capital decorated with acanthus leaves, a slender fluted shaft, and a base. It is more decorative than the Doric and Ionic orders and was adopted broadly in Greek architecture in the late classical period and later extensively in Roman architecture. The style spread across the Mediterranean and influenced neoclassical revival in later centuries.

Historically, Corinth was a regional power in ancient Greece, and its artistic and architectural motifs enjoyed wide influence in antiquity. In addition to architecture, korinthisch can describe artworks, sculpture motifs, and decorative programs that reflect Corinthian influence or origins, including motifs that emphasize slender proportions and abundant ornament.

In modern usage, korinthisch appears in art history and architectural discourse to classify examples that belong to or imitate the Corinthian tradition. The term may also appear in museum labels and scholarly writing to denote Corinthian-derived features or heritage.