Ex Libris - Gerard Gaudean

Ex Libris / Book Label / Bookmark / Bookplate

Ex libris by Piet Janssens for Gerard Gaudean
Ex libris by Antoon Vermeylen for Gerard Gaudean

Gerard Gaudean (1927 - 2003) was a very significant Belgian wood engraver and graphic artist

Motif 1: Signed on the back; Motif 2: Signed on the front

Year: unknown
Size approx.: 8 x 9.5 cm, approx. 10 cm x 8 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 of a book cover to indicate ownership.

The purpose: It protects valuable books from being lost when loaned 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 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 usually produced as woodcuts or copper engravings, later as lithographs, etchings, or linocuts.