Naam en adres c. 1868s - 1878s

This is "Naam en adres" by Jan Willem van Borselen, held at the Rijksmuseum. This delicate piece offers a glimpse into the social fabric of the 19th century. In an era defined by rapid industrialization and shifting social hierarchies, the act of recording a name and address becomes more than a simple notation. It's a statement of identity, a declaration of belonging within a society undergoing profound change. Van Borselen, working in a time of evolving class structures, captures a moment of connection, a bridge between individuals within a transforming world. The handwriting itself tells a story, hinting at the education, social standing, and personal history of the writer. Consider how this simple act of recording personal information reflects the broader anxieties and aspirations of a society grappling with questions of identity and place. It is an intimate look at how individuals sought to define themselves amid a rapidly changing world.