Ex Libris - V. Merulana - Maria Adriana Gay

Ex Libris / Book Label / Bookmark / Bookplate

Ex libris V. Merulana for Maria Adriana Gay

Year: unknown
Size approx.: 8.5 x 7.5 cm
Condition: in good condition commensurate with age, mounted on cardboard

An ex libris (from the Latin ex libris = "from the books [of...]") is a small, printed label that is pasted onto the inside cover of a book to indicate ownership.

The purpose: It protects valuable books from being lost when lent out and shows who the owner is.
The inscription: It almost always contains the owner's name, often introduced by the words "Ex Libris", "From the library of" or "My book".
The design: In addition to the name, it usually features artistic graphics, coats of arms, portraits or motifs that reflect the owner's hobbies, profession or personality.
The origin: The custom originated shortly after the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, when books were still valuable luxury goods.
The techniques: In the past, they were mostly produced as woodcuts or copperplate engravings, later as lithographs, etchings or linocuts.