Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1922 - 1923

Editor: Here we have a letter, "Brief aan Philip Zilcken," possibly from 1922 or 1923, created with ink on paper. It seems like quite a personal piece, capturing the flowing script of handwriting. How should we look at a work like this? Curator: It's crucial to understand the materials at hand: ink, paper, handwriting. The act of writing itself becomes a key element. This isn't mass-produced; it is singular. The labor involved, the careful forming of each word – this process of production becomes the focus. Do you notice anything about the social context that might impact its creation? Editor: Well, it's a letter, suggesting communication and relationship. It looks like it is written in French, possibly hinting at the location or at least who it was to be read by. Curator: Precisely. And think about the act of correspondence during that period. Each letter held value because it signified intent to write a letter from the sender, and because the receiver now had possession of that same sentiment on a piece of paper that was carefully held. These letters were handled often; notice that it may also appear damaged which would suggest use over the years. How does this lens of materiality influence your perspective? Editor: I never considered how much physical work, care, and access underpinned things we now take for granted in communication! This reminds us that we consume objects not just for use but for how they embody human intent. Curator: Exactly! We have unveiled the layers of labor and intent embedded within something as seemingly simple as an old letter.