What is a cartouche and why it is used?

A cartouche is an oval or rectangular frame typically used in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics to enclose a royal name or title, signifying that the person named within is of high status, usually a pharaoh. It served both a decorative and functional purpose, helping to identify and honor the individual, while also protecting their name in the afterlife. Cartouches are often found on monuments, tombs, and artifacts, reflecting the importance of the individual in Egyptian culture.