arras
A rich, heavy tapestry, typically hung on a wall for decoration or to provide insulation.
Noun
pl: arrases
This term evokes an atmosphere of medieval or Renaissance opulence, suggesting heavy, woven fabrics that serve both as art and as functional barriers against cold stone walls. It carries a connotation of secrecy and concealment, often appearing in literature to describe a hidden space or a sudden reveal when the fabric is pulled aside.
Because it refers to a specific type of luxury textile, it is used almost exclusively in historical, architectural, or high-fantasy contexts. It is rarely used to describe modern wall hangings, which are typically called tapestries or banners.