Ex Libris - Martin Flersheim - Thoma, Hans

Ex Libris / Book Label / Bookmark / Bookplate

Bookplate for Martin Flersheim from Frankfurt am Main, created in 1896 by the renowned German painter and graphic artist Hans Thoma (1839–1924).
Historical context: Martin Flersheim (1856–1919) was a well-known Frankfurt merchant, manufacturer, and significant art collector who supported and collected works by contemporary masters such as Hans Thoma.

handwritten annotation: Hans Thoma

Woodcut
Year: 
Size approx.: 9 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 identify ownership.

The purpose: It protects valuable books from being lost when lent out and indicates who the owner is.
The inscription: It almost always contains the name of the owner, 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 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.