frieze / frieze cloth
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frieze
A long, narrow, often painted or sculpted decorative band on walls, ceilings, or the facade of buildings.
Unter der Decke des Saals verlief ein prachtvoller Fries mit mythologischen Szenen.
A magnificent frieze with mythological scenes ran beneath the ceiling of the hall.
frieze cloth
A heavy, rough woolen fabric that was traditionally used for sturdy clothing.
Der Mantel des Seemanns war aus dickem, wetterfestem Fries gefertigt.
The sailor's coat was made of thick, weatherproof frieze cloth.
The word 'Fries' (frieze / frieze cloth) has two very different meanings. The context makes clear what is meant: If it is about architecture, walls, or buildings, it refers to the decorative band. If it is about clothing, fabric, or history, it refers to the woolen fabric.
Der Fries an der antiken Tempelfassade war beeindruckend.
The frieze on the ancient temple facade was impressive.
In the architectural meaning, 'Fries' (frieze) is often used with prepositions that describe a position on a vertical or horizontal surface. Typical phrases are 'an der Wand' (on the wall), 'an der Fassade' (on the facade), or 'unter der Decke' (beneath the ceiling).
An der Wand über dem Kamin war ein bemalter Fries angebracht.
A painted frieze was mounted on the wall above the fireplace.
Common verbs used with the architectural 'Fries' (frieze) are 'verlaufen' (to run), 'sich erstrecken' (to extend), 'zieren' (to adorn), or 'schmücken' (to decorate).
Ein schmaler Fries aus Gold verläuft entlang der Deckenkante.
A narrow frieze of gold runs along the edge of the ceiling.
The meaning as a woolen fabric is very rare today and is mainly used in historical or technical contexts, for example when talking about textiles or the history of fashion.
Im Museum für Textilgeschichte kann man alten Fries sehen.
In the museum of textile history, you can see old frieze cloth.
ledge
Both words refer to horizontal elements on a facade. A Fries is primarily a flat, often decorated ornamental band, whereas a Sims projects noticeably from the facade. If the description fits an ornamental strip, use „Fries“; for a projecting structural element, use „Sims“.
Unter dem Dach verläuft ein bemalter Fries mit Bildern aus der Stadtgeschichte.
A painted frieze depicting scenes from the city's history runs beneath the roof.
Unter dem Dach ragt ein breiter Sims aus der Fassade hervor.
A broad ledge projects from the facade beneath the roof.
