Brief aan Jan Veth Possibly 1892 - 1896

Curator: This intriguing piece, “Brief aan Jan Veth,” possibly dating from 1892-1896, showcases Alberdingk Thijm's ink drawing on paper. Editor: Yes, it appears to be a letter, almost like a miniature work of art with that elegant pen work. What strikes you most about it? Curator: It's fascinating to consider this not just as a letter, but as a material object. We have ink, a crafted tool for writing; paper, likely handmade at this time; and the very act of handwriting. This connects us directly to the artist’s hand and mind, showcasing labor invested in this form of communication. Editor: So you see the medium as critical, over what the letter might say? Curator: Precisely! Consider the social context: letter-writing as a primary form of communication, a carefully crafted act in contrast to our rapid digital exchanges. The material choices become critical. Was this expensive paper? What kind of ink was used? These details would illuminate Thijm’s social standing and relationship to Jan Veth. This object straddles a boundary between utility and artistry. How does the miniature scale impact your understanding? Editor: That's a great point, the size feels very intimate. Knowing the work and care involved highlights the relationship between the writer and recipient. It also challenges our notions of what constitutes “art.” Curator: Exactly! We tend to place painting and sculpture on a higher pedestal. But looking at this letter, we see craftsmanship and intention – the raw materials elevated through skillful use. The value lies not just in the information conveyed, but in the labor and the materiality of communication itself. Editor: I've never really thought about a letter this way before, as a record of labour and material choices. Curator: And hopefully, next time, it’s the first thing you’ll think about.