Brief aan Ary Johannes Lamme 1841 - 1846

This is a letter to Ary Johannes Lamme, written in ink on paper by S. van der Berg. The letter is a testament to the power of the written word, and the labor involved in its creation. The author's hand moves across the page, forming each letter with care. Note the texture of the paper, its surface absorbing the ink in a way that gives each stroke a unique quality. This material evidence shows that the author carefully selected the correct nib and paper for his work. Consider the social context of this letter. In a time before instant communication, handwritten letters were a primary means of staying connected, and the labor embedded in the process speaks to the value placed on these personal connections. The letter is not just a means of conveying information, but a tangible expression of the author's thoughts and feelings. In understanding the full meaning of this artwork, we must consider the materials, the making process, and the social context in which it was created, thereby challenging the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.