Toelichting bij de Triomf-poort van prins Maurits 1710 - 1720

This is a handwritten note from the 17th century, made with iron gall ink on paper. Iron gall ink, made from tannins, iron salts, and a binder, was the standard writing material in Europe for over a thousand years, prized for its dark color and permanence. Looking closely, you can see the way the ink has slightly corroded the paper over time, a testament to its chemical properties. The script itself is a beautiful example of the formal handwriting of the period, reflecting the writer’s education and status. But beyond its aesthetic qualities, the note offers a direct connection to the past, a tangible link to the thoughts and ideas of someone living in a very different time. The creation of this note involved a complex interplay of labor and resources: from the gathering of raw materials for the ink, to the skilled hand that formed the letters. This piece reminds us that even the simplest objects can carry rich social and cultural significance. Ultimately, the note underscores how an awareness of materials, making, and context enhances our understanding of the artwork.