Ex Libris - B. M. Benes - Hodek, Josef

Ex Libris / Bookplate

Josef Hodek (1888–1973) was a significant Czech graphic artist and painter who was known for his numerous figurative woodcuts, linocuts, and in particular bookplates.

signed and/or inscribed on the verso

Woodcut
Year:
Size approx.: 6.5 x 5.8 cm
Condition: in good condition commensurate with age, slight adhesive residue on the reverse.

An ex libris (from the Latin ex libris = "from the books [of...]") is a small, printed label that is pasted onto the inside of a book cover to identify 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 displays artistic graphics, coats of arms, portraits, or motifs that reflect the hobbies, profession, or personality of the owner.
The origin: The custom arose 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 created as woodcuts or copperplate engravings, later as lithographs, etchings, or linocuts.