Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken before 1897

This briefkaart, or postcard, addressed to Philip Zilcken, is a fascinating object made from paper, ink, and the postal system itself. While seemingly simple, it embodies a complex network of processes. The card's surface is divided into zones, each with a distinct purpose, from the pre-printed areas for the address to the stamp and postmark. This reflects the rationalization of communication in the late 19th century. The handwriting, in contrast, introduces an element of human touch, marking a personal communication within this standardized format. Consider also the labor involved. From the papermaking and printing processes, to the postal workers who sorted and delivered it, this postcard relied on an entire system of labor, invisibly present. Its materiality and the network of production and distribution behind it, invite us to consider the social and economic context of its creation. By looking at the materials, making, and context of this briefkaart, we gain insight into the interconnectedness of art, everyday life, and social structures.