The images refer back to the aristocratic subjects of Titian, Rubens, Velázquez, and Van Dyck (and occasionally to saints, martyrs, or Christ himself), and until recently the figures were set against decorative backdrops of swirly patterns that weave behind and around the sitters. (artnews.com)
To make swirls run a butter knife or chopstick in swirly patterns around the cream. (willfrolicforfood.com)
And the women got dolled up in dresses with swirly skirts, putting on dainty gloves and hats before walking out the door. (thespiff.com)