A horizontal decorative band, often sculpted or painted, that runs along the upper part of a wall or building. In classical architecture, it forms the middle section of an entablature between the architrave and cornice.
From French 'frise,' ultimately from Latin 'Phrygius' meaning 'Phrygian,' referring to elaborate embroidered cloth from Phrygia. The architectural term emerged in the 16th century as these decorative bands resembled the ornate patterns of Phrygian textiles.
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