Horizontale cartouche met twee mannelijke bovenlichamen 1657 - 1685

This anonymous etching from the 17th century, titled “Horizontale cartouche met twee mannelijke bovenlichamen”, showcases the intricate details of Baroque ornament. The piece, currently housed at the Rijksmuseum, features two symmetrical male torsos intertwined with swirling, organic patterns. The artist employed meticulous cross-hatching to create a sense of volume and depth, highlighting the flowing lines of the design. The cartouche itself is a blank space, suggesting its intended function as a decorative element for larger works. It is a prime example of the ornate and theatrical style that defined Dutch art during this period.