Secrets of Nature Discovered

An elaborate engraved bookplate, or ex-libris, belonging to the Count of Stolberg is pasted onto a blank, slightly stained paper leaf. The central heraldic achievement consists of a complex coat of arms with multiple quarterings. It is surmounted by three barred helmets with decorative mantling and crests. The central crest features a set of antlers. The flanking crests include feathered plumes and a crowned eagle. Two seated allegorical female figures flank the coat of arms atop architectural pedestals. The figure on the left wears a crown and holds a scepter in one hand and a laurel or olive branch in the other. The figure on the right represents Justice. She holds a pair of scales and a sword. A flowing banner arched above the heraldic crests bears the name of the Count. In the bottom left corner of the engraved plate, near the base of the left pedestal, is a small engraver's signature.

Count Christian Ernst (1691 to 1771) was a German politician and a member of the House of Stolberg. He was a known collector of books and scientific works.

Sy. engraved [this]. Original: "Sy. sc.", an abbreviation for the Latin "sculpsit." This identifies the artist who created the engraving.