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An ex-libris is a visual mark placed inside a book to identify its owner. Traditionally, it is an engraving or a small label featuring the name, motto, or a distinctive symbol of the owner.

Typically positioned inside the cover or on the front page, the ex-libris is the first thing one notices when opening a book. Whether for collecting, gifting, or simply marking one’s books, it gives each book a unique identity.

While commonly used internationally, the term ex-libris often needs further clarification, as its meaning is rarely fully understood without a more detailed definition. Derived from Latin, it is formed by the preposition ex, meaning origin, and liber (book). Literally, it means “from the book,” referring to a mark indicating the provenance or ownership of a book.

The Latin language is particularly efficient in expressing in just a few words what other languages would convey in paraphrases. Thus, ex-libris could be understood as “from the books of…” or “belonging to the books of…” and by extension, “book of…” or “book belonging to…”.

There are several variations of the spelling: ex-libris, ex libris, or exlibris, but they all refer to the same concept: a unique marking identifying the owner of a book. This idea exists under different names in other languages, such as Bookplate in English, Bücherzeichen in German, Boekmarken in Dutch, or Marque de possession in French.

The history of ex-libris dates back millennia. The earliest known ex-libris is a small blue enamel ceramic plaque that accompanied the papyri of Pharaoh Amenhotep III (1408-1372 BCE). Considered the first testimony of this type of mark, this unique piece is now held at the British Museum in London.

Before the invention of printing, books were unique and extremely valuable objects, reserved for the elite. Their laborious and costly creation explains the tradition of hand-writing the owner’s name inside them. These ownership marks, often done in calligraphy, were made by the monks of medieval monasteries who reproduced and decorated manuscripts like the Bible or chronicles.

With the invention of printing around 1450, the first engraved ex-libris appeared, using woodcutting, a technique that allowed precise reproduction of designs.

From the 15th to the 18th century, the majority of ex-libris featured heraldic themes, with family crests and coats of arms as main motifs. This is because books were still primarily for the nobility, religious institutions, and other privileged figures. Starting in the 18th century, with the French Revolution and the rise of the bourgeoisie, the ex-libris became more widespread. Bibliophiles from various social classes adopted this practice, leading to a shift in design: heraldic motifs gradually gave way to more personal and creative ex-libris, reflecting the tastes and identities of their owners.

Ex-libris have traversed the ages and remain a vibrant tradition today. For book collectors and bibliophiles, they are more than just a mark of ownership: they represent a link to centuries of history and a unique personal expression. Using an ex-libris is both honoring a tradition and personalizing one's library with elegance.

Ex-libris are being reinvented today as a form of personal and artistic expression. Carrying on a centuries-old tradition, they create a precious link between generations of bibliophiles, where every book bears a unique imprint. This mark, symbolizing both the richness of the book and cultural history, also reflects the creativity of the artist who designed it.

Through carefully crafted illustrations, symbolic motifs, or evocative quotes, the ex-libris becomes an intimate reflection of the reader and their relationship with books. Choosing an ex-libris is much more than signing a book; it is asserting one’s personal taste and connection to art. And if, by misfortune, a book is lost, its owner can easily track it down...

Designing an ex-libris is about giving your books a unique and personal signature. More than just a mark of ownership, the ex-libris becomes a true work of art that can reflect your tastes, passions, or even a message you wish to share. It can be inspired by your favorite activities, values, or aesthetic universe. For instance, you could choose to feature a literary motif, a nature-related emblem, or a design symbolizing your profession or hobbies.

The possibilities are endless: a sleek and minimalist design for lovers of simplicity, or a more detailed and intricate motif for those who prefer a richer approach. You could also choose an ex-libris highlighting cultural elements, such as a particular artistic style (Art Deco, Impressionism, etc.), or a geographical or historical theme, such as one inspired by Brittany or Ancient history.

Whether you choose a classic or more contemporary design, every ex-libris becomes a work of art that reflects you and your personality. You can include elements like your name, a symbol, or a quote. Whether for your own library or as a gift for someone special, a personalized ex-libris gives each book a unique place in your universe.

You can:

• Choose a model from our catalog: customize one of our ex-libris with your first name, surname, or initials.
• Opt for a custom ex-libris: through a personalized exchange, we will work together to create an ex-libris that reflects you, whether it’s a precise drawing, a specific typography, or a strong symbol.

In both cases, you’ll have the opportunity to add a personal touch to your books, an invaluable detail carrying a unique story.

Our reference books for everything you need to know about ex-libris:

• BOUCHOT, Henri. Les ex-libris et les marques de possession du livre (Paris: E. Rouveyre, 1891); A classic work tracing the evolution of ownership marks and ex-libris as elements of book identification.
• HOPKINSON, Martin. Ex libris: The Art of Bookplates (London: The British Museum, 2011); An exploration of the role of ex-libris in art, with a selection of works from various periods and cultures.
• MEYER-NOIREL, Germaine. L’Ex libris: histoire, art, techniques (Paris: Picard, 1989); A thorough study of the history and techniques of ex-libris, from its origins to its development as an artistic object.
• ORENES, Francesc. Ex libris de la propietat dels llibres (Tarragona: Arola Editors, 2000); An analysis of the role of ex-libris in culture, highlighting historical and contemporary examples.