Cartouche met twee engelen en twee vogels 1586

Editor: Here we have an engraving from 1586 titled "Cartouche met twee engelen en twee vogels", meaning "Cartouche with two angels and two birds" by an anonymous artist. It’s so intricate! What strikes me is how this ornamental design surrounds text… like the words themselves are precious. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: Indeed, it's a fascinating convergence of text and image, reflecting the Renaissance preoccupation with classical forms. Cartouches themselves are ancient devices, originally used by the Egyptians, where a symbolic oval enclosed royal names, an act of conferring power. Here, two angels hold open what appears to be the seal of a trade agreement and below is a reference to Abraham Ortelius, a cartographer. How might these symbols communicate ideas of authority and knowledge? Editor: I see what you mean. The angels certainly add a heavenly authority, guarding knowledge. Are the birds significant? Curator: The birds perched next to the angels seem eagle-like, a Roman emblem, often used to represent the divine or imperial power. What do you observe about the Latin script contained within the frame? Editor: That makes sense! It seems so deliberate, enclosed and highlighted within these symbols of importance and protection. I never really considered how a decorative frame could have its own kind of voice. Curator: Exactly. It is not just about containing the words; it is also a potent declaration of power. Hopefully, we can now see more in such forms.