Images(2)

Bookplate

DateCa. 1786

OriginEurope, France, Paris

MediumCopper, Unknown

DimensionsOverall: 3 1/4 × 3 1/8in. (8.3 × 7.9cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1930-698

DescriptionCopper bookplate with Taliaferro arms, a Greek motto reading, "Not to seem, but to be," and the name of Richard Tagliaferro (Taliaferro).
Label TextA copper plate made to be used as "labels for the inside of books" bearing the coat of arms of the Tagliaferro (Taliaferro) family engraved on it. This image was discovered by Thomas Jefferson during his search for information on the family as requested by George Wythe. Underneath the coat of arms is a Greek motto reading, "Not to seem, but to be," as well as the name of "Richard Tagliaferro" (Taliaferro), a member of the family in Williamsburg at the time.
MarkingsEngraved "Richard Tagliaferro"