Rejsedagbog 1845

Johan Thomas Lundbye created this travel journal using paper, ink, and leather, sometime in the 1800s. The book’s covers are bound in what appears to be reptile skin, embossed with a repeated diamond pattern. The leaves within are filled with the artist's handwriting in a dark, consistent ink, indicative of the use of a quill or early fountain pen. The material qualities of the journal—its size, weight, and the texture of its pages—suggest intimacy and portability. It reflects the pace of travel and the practice of handwritten notation, which were key aspects of nineteenth-century life. These journals were precious objects, made by highly skilled tradespeople in book binding. By considering the materials and the embodied labor, we can gain insight into the culture of travel and documentation of the period. The journal stands as a testament to the enduring importance of craftsmanship and material culture in understanding the past.