Design for an Arch Surmounted by a Cartouche with a Ducal Crown 1700 - 1780

This anonymous drawing from the 18th century is a design for an arch, a common architectural feature in the period. The arch is surmounted by a cartouche, a decorative element often used to display a coat of arms or inscription. In this case, the cartouche is topped by a ducal crown, suggesting a design intended for a noble patron. The delicate, flowing lines of the design, particularly the scrolling volutes, are characteristic of the Rococo style, a movement that emphasized elegance and asymmetry. The drawing, executed in pen and ink, is a testament to the skill and artistry of the anonymous designer, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that defined the era.