_Columns with Lotus-bud Capitals_ .-- Originally these may perhaps have represented a bunch of lotus plants, the buds being bound together at the neck to form the capital.

The columns of Beni Hasan consist of four rounded stems (fig.

68).

Those of the Labyrinth, of the processional hall of Thothmes III., and of Medamot, consist of eight stems, each presenting a sharp edge on the outer side (fig.

69).