Ex libris - unknown artist and unknown owner

Ex Libris / Book Label / Bookmark / Bookplate

Ex libris by unknown artist and unknown owner

Signed and numbered on the reverse

Year: unknown
Size approx.: 6 x 4 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 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 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 displays artistic graphics, coats of arms, portraits, or motifs that reflect the owner’s hobbies, profession, or personality.
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.