Exlibris of Olga Veselova 1981

This Exlibris of Olga Veselova was etched by Oleksandr Aksinin, a Ukranian artist, in 1981. The dominant symbol is a highly stylized automaton figure that resembles a medieval alchemical device. The owl perched atop, historically a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, places this image within the tradition of scholarly pursuit. However, this wise owl is mechanized, suggesting a transition toward scientific or technological knowledge. This fusion of organic and mechanical motifs evokes the alchemical quest for transformation and perfection. Think of similar symbolic quests in earlier art, such as Renaissance allegories of human perfectibility. The presence of two figures at the bottom also invokes a sense of duality or mirroring, a theme that recurs in art across cultures and times. This symbol of duality has roots in early spiritual practices. Ultimately, this image is a symbol of transformation, reflecting a shift in values and a quest for knowledge. The way it resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings is fascinating.