Antiquarian Bookplates: 55 Bookplates to Personalize Your Library

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The earliest English bookplate appears to be the gift plate of Sir Nicholas Bacon; it adorns a book that once belonged to Henry VIII, and now is located in the King's library, British Museum. The immense majority of examples display a plain shield of arms with motto on a scroll, and crest on a fillet. From the middle of the century, however, the ex-libris proper became quite popular; examples of that period are numerous and exhibit a complex design sensibility. To enable personalised advertising (like interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies.

We know that what you really enjoy about this site is the bookplates - so we've had a grand spring clean to make it easier for you to make the most of them. One or two copies of the special edition of the Helard book, with original bookplates tipped-in, remain available. The history of the bookplate as a symbolical and decorative print used to mark ownership of books begins in Germany. There are still substantial numbers of collectors for whom the study of bookplates spanning 500 years is a fascinating source of historical, artistic and socio-cultural interest.In many plates, indeed, the shield of arms takes quite a subsidiary position by the side of the predominantly architectural urn.

The term "ex-libris", used as a noun ( Exlibris (written in one word) in German) originated in France. But if you are looking for some of the most unique, riveting, and disturbing plates in books, be sure to check out some books on medicine and anatomy. The various styles of English bookplates from the Tudor period to the late Victorian period reflect the prevailing taste in decorative art at different epochs—as bookplates do in all countries. Catalogue of British and American Bookplates bequeathed to the Trustees of the British Museum by Sir Augustus Wollaston Franks. Signed book plates are one of the most popular way for authors to personalise copies of their books.

Hear from librarians about amazing collections, learn about historic bindings or printing techniques, get to know other collectors.