Ex Libris - Olga Falladová

Ex Libris / Bookplate

Olga Falladová was a Czechoslovakian book collector and patron of bookplates, active primarily between the 1920s and 1940s.

signed, dated, and inscribed on the verso

Woodcut
Year: c. 1940
Size approx.: 6.3 x 9 cm
Condition: in good condition commensurate with age, slight adhesive residue on the reverse.

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 identifies the owner.
The inscription: It almost always contains the name of the owner, often preceded 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 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.