Cartouche (cartography)

A cartouche in cartography is a decorative emblem on a globe or map.

The cartouche emerged from decorative borders around the map in the 15th century.

[3] These were largely modelled after Italian precedent (simple strapwork), but later architectural and figurative elements (like coats of arms) were added.

[2] The imagery included often had the purpose of backing up a ruler's claim to territory.

Toward the end of the 18th century ornamental effects in cartography became less popular, and their style developed to simple ovals or they were omitted entirely.