Tambour

In classical architecture, a tambour (Fr.: 'drum') is the inverted bell of the Corinthian capital around which are carved acanthus leaves for decoration. In classical architecture, a tambour (Fr.: 'drum') is the inverted bell of the Corinthian capital around which are carved acanthus leaves for decoration. The term also applies to the wall of a circular structure, whether on the ground or raised aloft on pendentives and carrying a dome (also known as a tholobate), and to the drum-shaped segments of a column, which is built up in several courses.