Ex Libris - Gerlach House Library

Ex Libris / Book Label / Bookmark / Bookplate

Exlibris Gerlach Home Library
classic coat of arms bookplate for a family or home library

Year: unknown
Size approx.: 5.5 x 8 cm
Condition: in good condition for its 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 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 preceded 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 mostly produced as woodcuts or copper engravings, later as lithographs, etchings, or linocuts.