supralibros (information objects) (Q1095)

Indications of ownership, often heraldic, on the covers or external surfaces of a book. This information may be given by being blocked on the left (or right) sides of a book or may be engraved on furniture or fastenings attached to a binding. In some cases a centre might be made in the form of a cast coat of arms. They may be elaborately decorated and form part of the decorative scheme of a binding in addition to giving information about ownership.