Regnskab 1847 1847

Martinus Rørbye made this account book in 1847, using ink on paper. But this isn't just any ledger; it's a window into the material culture and economy of its time. Look closely at the handwritten entries, detailing expenses and transactions. The paper itself, likely handmade, bears the marks of its creation, its texture and weight hinting at the labor involved in its production. The ink, too, carries its own story, from its raw ingredients to the careful calligraphy of the scribe. Consider the social context: who was keeping these accounts, and for what purpose? What does this small window tell us about the flow of goods, services, and money in 19th-century Denmark? The very act of recording these transactions speaks to the rise of bureaucracy and the increasing importance of accounting in a rapidly changing world. By attending to the materials, the making, and the social context, we gain a deeper understanding of this humble account book and its place in history, blurring the lines between art and everyday life.