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Baluster
Architectural element; vertical moulded shaft / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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A baluster (/ˈbæləstər/ ⓘ) is an upright support, often a vertical moulded shaft, square, or lathe-turned form found in stairways, parapets, and other architectural features. In furniture construction it is known as a spindle. Common materials used in its construction are wood, stone, and less frequently metal and ceramic. A group of balusters supporting a handrail, coping, or ornamental detail is known as a balustrade.[1][2]
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The term baluster shaft is used to describe forms such as a candlestick, upright furniture support, and the stem of a brass chandelier.[citation needed]
The term banister (also bannister) refers to a baluster or to the system of balusters and handrail of a stairway.[3] It may be used to include its supporting structures, such as a supporting newel post.[4]