Brief aan Pieter Haverkorn van Rijsewijk Possibly 1889

This is a letter written by Jan Veth on May 25th. He employed pen and ink on paper to produce this handwritten correspondence. The material aspects of this letter are simple and straightforward. The choice of pen and ink speaks to a time when handwriting was the primary mode of communication, requiring a level of skill and care now largely replaced by digital means. The strokes of ink, varying in thickness and darkness, give the letter a unique texture and rhythm. The letter offers a glimpse into the social and cultural context of the late 19th century, with the author’s thoughts on art and his professional activities. Letters, like this one, served as a vital means of maintaining personal and professional connections, reflecting the labor involved in communication before the age of digital technology. Considering this letter's material and making reminds us of the value and effort involved in preserving personal histories and creative practices.