Rocaille Cartouche with an Eagle
1748
graphite
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1748
graphite
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a blank shield-shaped space framed by swirling, leafy vines and clouds. The lines are loose and flowing, like handwritten cursive stretched into decoration. At the bottom, a small eagle perches on a rock, its wings slightly spread. The empty shield was likely meant for a coat of arms or crest—it’s a common decorative trick in old art. The whole thing looks like it’s floating, thanks to the light, airy strokes. Next, check out Baroque to see how this style’s drama and detail fit into bigger trends.
