BOOK-PLATES

name given to labels placed inside cover of books to denote ownership; used since 15th cent.; before their introduction covers of books were stamped with owner’s personal device. They are also known as ex libris. The earliest known are of Ger. origin, but an O.E. book-plate appears in an ancient folio of Henry VIII.’s library, bearing an elaborate emblematic drawing. Many different designs have been utilized, but the majority are armorial. Many of the best-known artists have designed Marshall, and Bewick. Book-plates are now little used, but are in demand by collectors. pionidoe, an order of Arachnids), minute, scorpion-like creatures found in warm regions lurking within books or in dark confined places. They feed upon the juices of insects.