Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken before 1899

This Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken was made in 1898 by Albert Verwey, most likely with paper, ink, and a printing press. In its time, the mass production of paper goods like postcards represented a shift towards industrialization and widespread communication. The card itself bears marks of its journey. Embossed seals and postage stamps, along with the author’s handwriting, overlay the printed text. These various layers of inscription offer an insight into the card's use as a communication tool. The social significance lies in the ability to send messages quickly across distances, connecting people through the postal system, a relatively new phenomenon at that time. The printing process speaks to the rise of consumer culture. The industrial production contrasts with the personal touch of a handwritten note. This card makes us reconsider how everyday objects can carry cultural and historical weight, blurring the lines between functional design and personal expression.