THE ORTIZ AMERICAN BOOKPLATE COLLECTION

http://www.portal-earte.com/AmericanBookplates 

PRESENTATION

Mr Manuel Ortiz (1900-1966), who lived in Lisbon, Portugal, was a well known bookplate collector. During the late thirties and early forties, he kept correspondence with various institutions and individuals of the USA, looking for American bookplates. In his own words: “I am endeavouring to assemble a collection of the bookplates of American College and University Libraries. (...) I would deem it a great pleasure if you would be so kind as to send me copies of the bookplates you use in your library. You may be certain of my thanks, as well as those of some of my countrymen who will see your plates for the first time”. Through this process Mr Ortiz assembled more than twelve hundred American bookplates which, not uncommonly, were accompanied by letters sent by the owners or designers of the bookplates.

Several years ago, in a book auction in Lisbon, I had the opportunity of acquiring this collection and, since than, going through its “secrets”. Who were the owners, the artists, the institutions? What was their contribution to the development of the “American society”? I have, since than, been gratified by what I have been finding.

I expect that new contributions, relating to the history of these bookplates, may be added and allow a more extended knowledge of the bookplates presented.

I will be glad to develop contacts relating to this matter. Do not hesitate to contact me: henrique.marcal@mail.telepac.pt

 Lisbon, March 2010