CIMAISE Meaning and
Definition
-
A cimaise, also commonly referred to as a picture rail or dado rail, is a decorative molding or strip fixed to the wall near the ceiling or just above the dado molding in a room. The term "cimaise" originated from the French word "cimaise," which means "cresting." This architectural element serves both functional and decorative purposes.
Functionally, a cimaise is primarily designed to act as a support for hanging pictures, artworks, or other decorative objects. It typically features a groove or rail on which hooks, wires, or cords can be attached securely. This allows for easy rearrangement or replacement of artworks without the need for hammering nails into the wall, minimizing potential damage to the surface.
In terms of aesthetics, the cimaise adds an elegant and refined touch to the room's interior design. It helps to visually break up the wall, creating a decorative border between the wall and the ceiling. The cimaise can be plain or adorned with intricate carvings, mouldings, or embellishments, and is often chosen to complement the overall style of the room.
Historically, cimaises were often found in traditional or classical interiors, but they can also be applied in contemporary or modern settings, depending on the desired aesthetic. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for homeowners, art galleries, museums, and other spaces where artwork or wall decorations are featured prominently.
Common Misspellings for CIMAISE
- ximaise
- vimaise
- fimaise
- dimaise
- cumaise
- cjmaise
- ckmaise
- comaise
- c9maise
- c8maise
- cinaise
- cikaise
- cijaise
- cimzise
- cimsise
- cimwise
- cimqise
- cimause
- cimajse
- cimakse
Etymology of CIMAISE
The word "cimaise" comes from the French language. Its etymology can be traced back to the Latin "camisia", meaning "shirt" or "tunic". In medieval Latin, it took on the form "camisia", which then evolved into "camaise" in Old French. Later, it transformed into "cimaise" as we know it today. The term "cimaise" refers to a horizontal decorative element or molding that runs along the top of a wall, typically used to hang artwork or decorative objects.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
