Cartouche geflankeerd door twee kinderen c. 1628

This etching by H. Picart, created around 1628, depicts a decorative cartouche flanked by two cherubs. The cartouche, a common element in Baroque art, is a decorative, often oval frame used to hold a coat of arms, inscription, or other information. The cherubs, with their playful poses and musical instruments, add a sense of whimsy and grandeur to the design. The intricate details, including the fruit garlands at the base and the scrolling foliage, reflect the ornate style of the Baroque period. The empty space within the cartouche suggests that it was intended for personalization, allowing viewers to imagine what kind of inscription or imagery it might hold.