Bookplate Daniel Pesl I (Exlibris Daniel Pesl I)

Bookplate Daniel Pesl I (Exlibris Daniel Pesl I) is an early print created by Franz Marc in 1901. Executed as a lithograph, this piece falls squarely within the classification of printmaking, a medium that allowed the young German artist to explore graphic design and symbolic representation outside the realm of painting. A bookplate, or Exlibris, is traditionally a small, custom-designed artwork affixed to the inside cover of a book to signify ownership, thereby linking the artist’s design directly to personal patronage.

Dating to the turn of the century, this early work provides a crucial glimpse into Marc's artistic development before his definitive involvement with Expressionism and the founding of the influential Der Blaue Reiter almanac a decade later. In 1901, the German art scene was heavily influenced by Symbolism and the decorative arts movement known as Jugendstil. This lithograph reflects the prevalent aesthetic concerns of the period, emphasizing strong linearity, stylized motifs, and compositional elements well-suited to the intimate scale required for prints.

The bookplate was commissioned by or dedicated to Daniel Pesl, whose name is incorporated into the design. Although the Bookplate Daniel Pesl I is not representative of the vibrant color and dynamic form for which Marc would later become known, it showcases the foundational skills and sophisticated design sensibilities he possessed. This graphic work is a testament to the diverse projects modern masters undertook during their formative years. The piece resides in the distinguished collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). As a historic example of German printmaking dating to 1901, the image is frequently referenced in public domain collections, ensuring wide accessibility for scholarly study.