Briefkaart aan Frans Buffa en Zonen Possibly 1873

This is an undated briefkaart—or postcard—made by Jozef Israëls and sent to Frans Buffa en Zonen. Israëls was a prominent figure in the Hague School, a group of Dutch realist painters. During Israëls' time, postcards were a relatively new and increasingly popular medium for communication. They democratized correspondence, making it accessible to a wider range of people. It is interesting to note that Israëls, known for his paintings depicting the lives of the poor and working class, chose this modern, accessible format to communicate. This choice reflects the changing social landscape of the time, where advancements in technology and communication were beginning to bridge social divides. In choosing a postcard, Israëls engages with modernity, moving beyond traditional forms of correspondence, and hinting at a more egalitarian approach to art and communication. This small piece invites us to consider the evolving relationship between art, technology, and society.