Visitekaartje aan Philip Zilcken 1867 - 1927

Here is a handwritten visiting card by Willy Martens, gifted to Philip Zilcken. Martens, born in the mid-19th century, lived in a world defined by rigid social structures, and the etiquette of social interactions was meticulously observed. Visiting cards like this one were a common tool in the upper echelons of society, and a symbol of social identity. The handwritten note adds a personal dimension to the card, softening the formality of the occasion. We can imagine the moment of exchange, a brief but meaningful encounter between two individuals in a society that placed great emphasis on decorum and social grace. The message written in Dutch expresses a warm sentiment, roughly translating to "Dear friend, Consider this a small token. It was too late to..." This visiting card, a seemingly simple artifact, offers a glimpse into the social rituals and personal connections that characterized the lives of individuals like Martens and Zilcken.