Brief aan anoniem Possibly 1849

This is ‘Brief aan anoniem’, or ‘Letter to Anonymous’, by Ary Johannes Lamme. It’s a handwritten letter, using ink on paper. The letter is a direct and intimate form of communication, a means of reaching out and sharing thoughts. Lamme uses the nib of his pen to create strokes that vary in thickness and darkness, revealing the pressure and rhythm of his hand. The ink itself, likely iron gall, has a subtle sheen, a testament to its careful preparation. The paper, now aged and fragile, bears witness to time. Its texture and weight contribute to the letter's overall sense of history. The act of writing involves labor, skill, and intention. Each stroke is carefully placed. Lamme's personal touch is evident in the handwriting, the slant of the letters, and the flourish of the signature. This is a record of an individual and their creative process. The letter blurs boundaries between personal correspondence, art object, and historical document. It reminds us that everyday materials and practices, such as writing, can be elevated through artistic intention and skill, challenging our notions of what constitutes art.