How closely have you looked at an Oreo cookie? That iconic seal imprinted onto each Oreo is the standard of classic excellence in the world of cookie designers. Yes, there's such a profession!

And real architects are Oreo design fans, too! Pulitzer prize winning architecture critic Paul Goldberger said the cookie's design remains "the stuff of legend."

What's so special about the Oreo's flowered embossed design? For one, the origins have been open to much interpretation. Some even speculate the design dates back to Freemasons (hello, Da Vinci Code!). First introduced in 1912, the Oreo was originally stamped with a wreath. In 1924 a pair of turtledoves were added. Today's design dates back to 1952, and an anonymous cookie designer.

Nicola Twilley at The Atlantic delves into the world of cookie and biscuit design, detailing the history of imprinted baked goods and the "golden age of biscuit engineering" in the 1920's.

• Read more: Who Invented the Oreo? The Unsung Heroes of Cookie Design by Nicola Twilley at The Atlantic

Related: Tip: Press Vintage Glassware onto Your Sugar Cookies

(Images: Flickr user Edward licensed for use under Creative Commons)