SIGNED BOOKS
WHAT DOES A SIGNED BOOK MEAN?
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Having a book signed by the author, artist, illustrator or other key person:
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adds an element of interest for the reader;
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if inscribed (or dedicated) to a particular person, provides an emotional connection between the reader and the book;
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makes the book more unique; and
as such books are typically limited in number.
Signed books are often collected and have a higher monetary value than the unsigned versions.
How are Books Signed?
Book signing can occur in different ways. In more recent times specific events may be arranged by the book store or publisher for the author or artist to attend and personally sign books purchased by customers.
This allows for fans of the author a chance to see and meet the author as well as obtain a personally signed copy of the book. Authors and bookstores also benefit by generating goodwill and providing an avenue to sell many copies of the book at the event.
Some suggest the commercialisation of multiple book signing at pre-arranged events likely increased in prominence around the 1970s.
Rather than attend a specific event, authors may also sign several books in private, such books to be sold later.
Authors may sign directly onto the book, often the title page or half-title page, using pen ink or other similar permanent method.
Bookplates
Source: National Gallery of Art
Another alternative method of signing is via use of a bookplate (also called an “ex libris plate”). This is a sticky piece of paper (or label) that is attached or glued to one of the first pages of a book.
Rather than have an artist attend an event or sending multiple books to the author for signing, publishers may instead send bookplates to the author. Once the signed bookplates are returned, the publisher then attaches those signed bookplates to the books.
The printing press was invented around the mid 1400s. As books were not mass produced prior to the 15th century, books were seen as a rare and valuable asset. To help safeguard such books, bookplates were used to indicate ownership of a book.
Over time bookplates took on more artistic flair and some owners inscribed a family crest or coat of arms onto the book. Famous artists might be commissioned to create unique bookplate designs.
Adjacent image is an example of a bookplate used by the famous writer, Robert Frost.
Modern bookplates will usually have the author’s signature on it, or sometimes the artist’s or book illustrator’s signature.
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Signed books for sale. Various authors and artists. Buy online at The Fine Art Hut
