Ex Libris - K.F.Gelink - Professional bookplate by N.C.Bol

Ex Libris / Book Label / Bookmark / Bookplate

Ex Libris K.F. Gelink

"The straight line is the shortest distance between 2 points"

On the reverse with a printed explanatory text; here, the entire symbolism of the image is decoded

signed lower left

Line etching
Year: 
Size approx.: 10 x 6 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 front 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 hobbies, profession, or personality of the owner.
The origin: The custom arose shortly after the invention of printing 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.