The aim of this paper is to understand the dynamics of the theory of order in the nineteenth century and to reveal a specific approach to mathematics, science, philosophy and decorative art in which order plays a prominent role. We will analyze the singular meaning that Poinsot assigns to the notion of order in the mathematical sciences, before describing the circulation of his writings on the order in the nineteenth century. Poinsot is one of the main sources of Cournot, who places the notions of order and form as the basis of his knowledge system. Then we will study the writings of Bourgoin who develops a combinatorics of ornaments based on the categories of order and form.
Keywords: classification of knowledge; combinatorics; history of mathematics; history of ornamental art; theory of order.