Plafond en cartouche c. 1658 - 1670

"Plafond en cartouche" is a design for a ceiling decoration, created by the French artist Jean Lepautre in the 17th century. This etching, a preparatory drawing for a larger decorative work, showcases Lepautre's mastery of the Baroque style. The intricate details and swirling forms characteristic of the period are beautifully rendered, depicting putti, scrolling foliage, and a central cartouche, all arranged in a dynamic composition. This design, typical of the period, would have been used to adorn ceilings in grand palaces and mansions, adding a sense of grandeur and opulence to interior spaces. The design reflects the taste for extravagant ornamentation during this era, showcasing the elegance and sophistication of Baroque decorative arts.