Ex Libris - Gaetano Galli

Ex Libris / Book Label / Bookmark / Bookplate

Ex libris by an unknown artist for Galli Gaetano

hand-signed on the front

Year: unknown
Size approx.: 11 x 10.5 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 loaned and indicates 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 originated shortly after the invention of printing in the 15th century, when books were still valuable luxury goods.
The techniques: In the past, they were usually produced as woodcuts or copper engravings, later as lithographs, etchings, or linocuts.