Ex libris EX LIBRIS CENTRA Poznań, size 9.5x12.5 cm
Condition as shown in the attached photos; illegible signature at the bottom; natural, minor soiling
The composition depicts two workers against the backdrop of an industrial plant interior, with machines and gears. One of the men is shown reading, while the other holds a tool in his hand. The inscription “EX LIBRIS” appears at the top, and “Centra” at the bottom. A print with a distinctive industrial style, evoking the themes of work, technology, and education.
The history of Poznań’s Centra dates back to 1910, when Andrzej Kaczmarek founded a battery factory in Berlin. In January 1919, the company was relocated to Poznań, where it initially operated as theFirst Poznań Factory of Battery Components. Starting on June 1, 1925, its products were sold under the “Centra” brand . A particularly interesting episode in the plant’s history is the period of World War II and the German occupation. At that time, the factory came under German administration and was incorporated into the Third Reich’s war economy. Among other things, the plant manufactured battery components for German V-1 missiles and V-2 rockets. After the war, Centra continued its operations and became one of Poznań’s most recognizable industrial plants. In 1970, following a merger with Poznań Electronic Works ALCO, the United Electrochemical Works Centra was established . The tradition of battery production in Poznań continues to this day.
