Bookplate by V.P. Loboikov Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

The drawing presents a decorative design intended as a bookplate. The central element is a stylized frame constructed from flowing, curvilinear lines. These lines intertwine and loop, creating a sense of continuous movement and organic growth. Small circular dots are strategically placed along the lines, adding visual interest and suggesting a delicate texture.
The overall composition adheres to a roughly symmetrical arrangement, though this symmetry is softened by the undulating nature of the design elements. The frame encloses a central space where a name appears in an elegant Cyrillic script. The lettering is rendered with a clear simplicity that contrasts with the intricacy of the surrounding ornamentation.
At the lower left and right corners, abbreviated initials – K. and C. respectively – are incorporated into the design, likely representing ownership or affiliation. These additions contribute to the personalized nature of the bookplate.
The aesthetic leans towards a late nineteenth- or early twentieth-century style, reminiscent of Art Nouveau with its emphasis on natural forms and flowing lines. The monochromatic palette reinforces the focus on line work and pattern.
Beyond its functional purpose as an identifier for books, the drawing conveys a sense of refinement and individuality. It suggests a cultivated taste and appreciation for decorative arts. The meticulous detail and graceful execution imply a deliberate effort to create a visually pleasing and personalized mark of ownership.