In the Doric order, a thick plain slab without dressing; in the Ionic order, with a molded lower edge; in the Corinthian order, with concave sides and the corners removed. In the architecture of ancient Egypt a large thick cube. By working the ends of such blocks artisans produced a laterally spreading form of capital, later detailed by addition of moldings, multiplication of parts, and ornamentation with abstract, floral, zoomorphic forms.

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Left: An abacus in the Doric order, the thick block atop the column. Center: In the Ionic order, a flattened square block with the lower edge molded. Right: In the Corinthian order, the block has concave sides and no corners.

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