Nazlı YILDIRIM

In this study, a group of Ionic capitals identified in Sinope Ancient City in Paphlagonia Region were examined and determination of the typology of all these capitals, what kind of structures they belong to and dating. The A/B sides of the 17 Ionic capitals, which are evaluated in this study and have a rich variety of decoration, show the same typological features in terms of the arrangement of abacus, volute, kymation and palmettes.Pulvinus and balteus on the side faces of the Ionic capitals also have a rich variety of decoration. There are also pseudo-balteus techniques, which separate the two pulvinus on the sides of the capitals, with a deep groove profile in the middle and allow the pulvinus to become prominent. Typological and stylistic details observed between the capitals generally indicate the 2nd century during the Roman Imperial Period of Anatolia. The close similarities with Thyateira, Pergamon Asklepion and Perge Column Street examples suggest that especially 10 capitals (Catalog no. 7-17, Picture 7-17) with similar dimensions may be associated with a stoa or colonnaded street. Although the samples have the same typological characteristics, the differences in workmanship and the richness of decoration observed in the details provide important clues about the presence of an important local workshop or at least the skilled craftsmen who can knowingly apply the popular architectural practices and ornaments.

Keywords:Black Sea, Paphlagonia, Sinope, Ionic Capital, Architectural Decoration