Discover the quiet art and history of American book-plates.
This is a thorough, landmark guide to the study of ex-libris, illustrated with rare examples and plenty of context for collectors and scholars alike.
This nonfiction volume surveys the development of American book-plates, credited to a pioneer in the field. It gathers plates, discusses signing practices, and provides substantial bibliographic material to help readers identify and understand these miniature works of art.
- Extensive illustrations of early American plates and engravings
- Historical overview and key figures in Ex Libris study
- Guides to reading marks, mottos, inscriptions, and plate styles
- Lists, indexes, and a bibliography to support research and collecting
Ideal for readers of Americana, librarians, and serious collectors who want a solid foundation and reference work on book-plates.