kornizave

Kornizave is a term used in Albanian to denote frames and cornices, encompassing both decorative moldings around openings such as doors and windows and the projecting architectural elements that crown a building. The word is commonly found in architectural, art, and restoration contexts and can refer to both functional and ornamental features.

In architecture, a cornice is the upper, projecting molding that finishes the edge of a wall or a facade. It serves architectural and weather-protective purposes by throwing rainwater away from the façade and helping to visualize the building’s silhouette. Kornizave in this sense can range from simple, plain moldings to elaborate, multi-tiered cornices with decorative motifs. They are made from materials such as stone, plaster, wood, or modern composites and are often designed to align with surrounding architectural orders or regional styles.

As frames, kornizave describe the borders around pictures, mirrors, or other artworks. These frames can be carved or molded and vary widely in material, size, and ornamentation, from minimal modern profiles to intricate historical designs.

Beyond construction and interiors, kornizave appear in historical preservation and restoration work, where matching the original cornice or frame’s profile and detailing is essential for accuracy. The term is used primarily in Albanian-language contexts but reflects a broader family of cornices and framing elements found in many architectural and artistic traditions. See also: cornice, molding.