Soft protection for the ’ead, a decorative piece (6)

I believe the answer is:

pelmet

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'piece' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pelmet that I've seen before include "ornamental drapery" , "Curtain rail concealer" , "Narrow border across top of window" , "Valance, fringe" , "Valance board" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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