Bookplates of Scientists

Abstract

Scientists, like other scholars, have always treasured books and collected those of their own subject, particularly rare and antique copies, in addition, of course, to their own publications. Pride of ownership has shown itself in the affixing of bookplates to the valuables in their library and as proof of ownership when lending. In the past these bookplates showed the arms and/or crest – should a scientist have them – but in more recent times a scientific motto or emblem has occasionally been employed. Here the author reviews bookplates of scientists since their beginning in the 16th century, annotating and explaining them in the first article on this subject. Both the author and the Editor would be glad to hear of other bookplates of scientists which have escaped their notice, particularly those showing scientific symbols.