Who painted Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills?

Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills was painted by Charles Samuel Keene in 1867.

Where can I see Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills?

Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Can I buy a print of Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills?

Museum-quality prints of Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills

Charles Samuel Keene , 1867

Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills is a print by Charles Samuel Keene. It dates from 1867 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Bookplate: Elmi P.

Accession no.: 1920.1377
Credit line: Gift of Arthur D. Brooks

About this work

Overview

Bookplate: Elmi P. Mills is a print by Charles Samuel Keene, created around 1867. The Cleveland Museum of Art holds this work.

Subject & Meaning

The design features a stylized 'M' within a floral wreath, flanked by the Latin phrase 'E·LIBRIS·CUGLI' and the name 'ELMI P·MILLS'. The Latin indicates the print's purpose as a bookplate, identifying the book's owner.

Technique & Style

The black-and-white design employs simple shapes and strong contrasts, creating a striking visual effect on a light background. The bold font used for the text adds to the overall graphic quality.

Context

Bookplates like this were typically commissioned by wealthy families to label their books, serving as a mark of ownership and often reflecting the owner's taste.