French Book-Plates

A historical account written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a comprehensive examination of French ex-libris, or book-plates, detailing their history, design, and significance from their inception in the late 16th century up to Hamilton's contemporary time. This work is particularly relevant for collectors and enthusiasts of bibliophilia, as it not only catalogs notable examples but also discusses the societal trends surrounding the collection of book-plates throughout European history. The opening of the book provides background on the increasing popularity of book-plates as a hobby that transformed into a serious pursuit for many collectors. Hamilton references early contributors to the study of ex-libris and introduces the valuable resources he has compiled to educate readers about the development and significance of these artistic possessions. He emphasizes the importance of heraldries and personal inscriptions found in book-plates, delineating the context in which they were created and their cultural relevance, thus setting the stage for the detailed chapters that follow.