Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken before 1889

This is a briefkaart, or postcard, sent by Jozef Israëls to Philip Zilcken, likely towards the end of the 19th century. While seemingly a humble artifact, the postcard speaks volumes about the changing landscape of communication and labor at the time. Printed on thin card stock, the briefkaart is an early example of mass communication, facilitated by advances in printing technology and postal systems. The use of standardized formats, pre-printed text, and adhesive stamps streamlined the process, reducing the cost and effort required to send a message. Israëls’ handwritten note connects the world of fine art with this burgeoning culture of efficiency. The quick, informal script contrasts with the more formal printed elements, reminding us that the aesthetics of craft and automation often overlap and intersect. Consider how even everyday materials like paper and ink can tell us about broader social and cultural shifts. It challenges the distinctions between high art and everyday life.