Riemkap van de firma Van Gelder Papier met postbezorger blazend op een posthoorn Possibly 1700 - 1932

This is an anonymous print of a Riemkap, or cover, made for Van Gelder Papier, depicting a postman blowing a horn. Here, the postman astride a horse becomes a symbol of speed and reliability in communication. It’s interesting to consider how the image of the postman, and by extension the postal service, was carefully constructed. This wasn’t just about delivering messages, but also about trust and connection. The horn symbolizes the announcement of news, both eagerly awaited personal letters and critical business correspondence, linking individuals and communities. Consider the power dynamics at play. Who had access to this service? Whose voices were amplified through the written word? The image may seem simple, but it hints at the complex social structures of the time, highlighting the importance of communication and the circulation of ideas.