(pronounced car-TOOSH)

This term can describe several items that at first appear to be unrelated. Firstly, when related to Egyptian culture, it describes a frame around a Pharaoh’s name, which is represented through hieroglyphics. In the decorative arts and jewelry industry, it can describe a variety of metal representations of Egyptian-inspired medallions having hieroglyphic symbols. Lastly, in a more Western, European context, the word means an ornamental tablet. The tablet is often inscribed or otherwise decorated and then framed with elaborate scroll-like carving. In the example we show, the cartouche is painted on the wall, rather than carved.