ABSTRACT
In this chapter, I document the history of the book inscription, paying particular attention to the various types in existence in Edwardian Britain and their frequency of use. The chapter is split into four parts. In the first part, I lay out the concept of ownership, making specific reference to books, while in the second part I provide a detailed explanation of the seven main types of book inscription (ownership inscription, author inscription, association copy, gift inscription, prize inscription, prize sticker, and bookplate) and how to recognize them. In the third part, I present and outline the first-ever topological typology of Edwardian book inscriptions. This typology will offer a useful guide for other researchers interested in these material artifacts, as well as librarians and archivists who are responsible for cataloging books containing inscriptions. In the final part, I explore Edwardian book inscriptions according to their patterns of use and domains of social practice.
