Brief aan Jan Veth 1874 - 1925

This is a letter to Jan Veth by Jan Toorop. As you can see, it is written in ink on paper. Though commonplace now, both materials have complex histories of production, trade, and commodification. Consider paper, first manufactured in China, then industrialized in Europe. Its surface invites inscription, making possible a system of recording and disseminating information. Ink, too, has a long history tied to knowledge production. This letter bears the trace of Toorop’s hand, his thoughts made visible through the pressure of pen on paper. But the social significance of this letter lies in its content. Letters were once vital forms of communication, connecting individuals across distances. In this case, the letter reveals the social networks of the art world. So, next time you see a letter, remember that it's not just ink on paper. It's a tangible link to the past, a testament to the enduring human need to connect, share, and create. It speaks to the relationship between people, their lives, and the world around them.