Grecian or classic architecture was exhibited in its purity in those splendid temples of the golden days of Athens, which still remain in a sufficient degree of preservation to bear ample testimony to the high state of architectural art among the Greeks. The best works of that period are always characterized by unity and simplicity, and in them an exquisite proportion is united with a chasteness of decoration, which stamps them perfect works of art. Each of the five orders was so nicely determined by their profound knowledge of the harmony of forms, and admirably executed, that all modern attempts at improving them have entirely failed, for they are, individually, complete models. --------" First unadorned And nobly plain, the manly Doric rose; The Ionic then with decent matron grace Her airy pillar heaved; luxuriant last The rich Corinthian spread her wanton wreath."
A single or double portico of columns supporting a lofty pediment, the latter connected with the main body of the building, which in most cases was a simple parallelogram, were the characteristic features of the pure Grecian architecture. And this very simplicity of form, united with the chasteness of decoration and elegance of proportion, enhanced greatly the beauty of the Grecian temple as a whole.
