Brief aan Jan Veth Possibly 1894 - 1899

This is ‘Brief aan Jan Veth’ a letter crafted by Jacob Nicolaas van Hall, likely around the late 19th century. Immediately, the elegant script captures your attention, flowing across the page in a series of delicate, dark lines. The density of the writing creates a textured surface, contrasting with the pale backdrop of the paper. The formal structure here is fascinating. Note how the verticality of the lines interacts with the horizontal format of the page. Van Hall fills the space in a way that suggests both order and urgency. We can observe in his work the semiotic system of language itself. He uses handwriting as a cultural code, imbued with personality and intention. Each stroke is a signifier, pointing not just to words, but also to the act of communication and connection between individuals. Van Hall presents us with a raw, unfiltered glimpse into a moment in time, reminding us of the profound power of simple communication.