A Cartouche is an ornamental frame or decorative panel, often featuring scrolling edges and elaborate carving, used to enclose coats of arms, monograms, inscriptions or decorative motifs. Originating during the Renaissance and widely used throughout the Baroque, Rococo and Georgian periods, cartouches appear on furniture, mirrors, clocks, architectural features and silverware. Their shape is typically asymmetrical and richly embellished with scrolls, foliage and shell motifs. Related Terms\ Acanthus, Baroque, Coat of Arms, Rococo, Scrollwork, Shield, Shell Motif.