The Egyptian Hieroglyphic alphabet is a phonetic system of picture writing. Each picture represents a sound which is similar to a letter in our alphabet. It was used only by Egyptian priests in ancient times. Each Cartouche from Egypt is handcarved and crafted to order by skilled Egyptian artisans. Certain letters or symbols can be requested, but the final decision rests with the Egyptian artist. A Cartouche was a loop of rope with a knot at one end. It was thought to represent the universe. The custom of writing the Pharaoh's name inside the Cartouche represented his rule over the universe.