Cartouche

usgb/kɑːrˈtuːʃ/
noun

An oval or oblong design with a slightly convex surface, typically edged with ornamental scrollwork. It is used to bear the name or title of a pharaoh or god in hieroglyphs.

The archaeologist discovered the pharaoh's name in the cartouche on the ancient wall.
Visual representation of "cartouche" - An oval or oblong design with a slightly convex surface, typically edged with ornamental scrollwork. It is used to bear the name or title of a pharaoh or god in hieroglyphs.

Often appears as...

  • egyptian cartouche
  • hieroglyphic cartouche

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "cartouche"
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Ancient Egypt

Used in relation to ancient Egyptian culture, often connected with pharaohs and deities.

Illustration for Ancient Egypt
Students wrote their names in hieroglyphs inside a drawn cartouche.
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Archeological Context

Common in descriptions of Egyptian artifacts and adds historical authenticity.

Illustration for Archeological Context
The cartouche on the artifact indicated it belonged to a lesser-known queen.
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Hieroglyphic Scripts

Cartouche is especially relevant when discussing the writing system of ancient Egypt.

Illustration for Hieroglyphic Scripts
The hieroglyphic cartouche is a key to unlocking ancient Egyptian language.
Visual representation of the word "Cartouche"

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