Cartouche met drie compartimenten c. 1654 - 1678

This etching, "Cartouche met drie compartimenten," was crafted by Jacob Lutma. Notice the prominence of the cartouche, a frame for inscriptions or images, which has roots stretching back to ancient Egypt, where it symbolized royal names and protection. The swirling, organic forms evoke a sense of dynamism, reflecting the Baroque period's love of movement and ornamentation. The cartouche motif, initially a simple oval, has morphed over centuries. In medieval times, they became elaborate shields bearing family crests. Later, during the Renaissance, they were adorned with garlands and grotesque masks. Even today, we find echoes of the cartouche in digital interfaces, where frames highlight important information. This illustrates the enduring human need to mark significance, a collective memory etched in visual form.