[M2.25backL]                                                          [M2.25back]									25
                                                                      
                                                                      		forms, a and b simple, a2 & b2 with bell all rounded:
                                                                      		a3 & b3 bell rounded and bracketed;  but of these the
                                                                      		simple a and rich b3 are the most frequent.  Taking them
                                                                      		all however in order a: when this capital is delicately
                                                                      		cut, it is the most exquisite of all for the changeful
                                                                      		curves of its surface:  That surface should never be lost
                                                                      		in its decoration;  it is cut into, as by the Byzantine,
                                                                      		and is most beautiful a2 The curves are comparatively insipid
                                                                      		from the absence of the angle;  it is usually cut
                                                                      		deeper and throw into bold masses of leafage, sometimes
                                                                      		becoming literally a boss, it is fine or otherwise
                                                                      		according to its Symmetrical design or its banded and
                                                                      		 careless sequence.
                                                                      		a3. A capital most rare:  perhaps found only at Venice
                                                                      		q. one not enough explored.
                                                                      		b.  Also fine in curvature, and worked with flat leaves:
                                                                      		when cut hollow it looks mean and bucketty
                                                                      		b2  Very important owing to its capability of decoration
                                                                      		by simple mouldings, as at Salisbury:  becoming [diagram]
                                                                      		&c and with a round abacus, very rich
                                                                      		b3.  The most important of all for leafage decoration.

[Version 0.05: May 2008]