Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1895 - 1896

This letter to Philip Zilcken was penned by Baronne Madeleine Deslandes, using paper, ink, and a writing instrument, likely a dip pen or fountain pen. These materials, humble as they are, are imbued with the social and cultural significance of correspondence in a bygone era. Consider the qualities of the paper itself, its texture and weight under Deslandes’ hand as she carefully formed each word. The ink, too, carries significance. Its color and consistency dictated the flow of writing, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the letter. The act of writing was a skilled practice, demanding dexterity and control to create elegant script. In this context, the pen becomes a tool of expression, capable of conveying not only words but also the nuances of emotion and intent. The labor of writing, each stroke a deliberate act, transforms the materials into a personal message. By considering the materials and processes involved, we gain insight into the social dynamics between Deslandes and Zilcken, challenging the traditional distinctions between art and craft.