Ronde cartouche omringd door bladranken op een console c. 1670 - 1676

This print showcases a cartouche encircled by foliage and resting on a console. The dominant motif is the intricate, swirling acanthus leaves, symbols of immortality and rebirth since ancient times. We see the acanthus motif not only in the capitals of Corinthian columns in ancient Greece, but also in Renaissance paintings, where it frequently adorns the frames of portraits, signifying enduring fame and memory. These leaves, initially emblems of resilience and artistic inspiration, are now intertwined with expressions of status and prestige. Notice how the acanthus leaves in this print convey an intense psychological impact through their rhythmic complexity, stirring emotions that resonate with the viewer's subconscious associations with growth and continuity. The transformation of these ancient symbols into emblems of power demonstrates our human need to connect with the past, suggesting a non-linear yet cyclical progression, as symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings throughout history.