Brief aan August Allebé Possibly 1907 - 1918

This handwritten letter by Egbert Rubertus Derk Schaap is a fascinating artifact on paper. The symbols here are not pictorial, but textual—the handwriting itself becomes a potent carrier of meaning. Consider the act of writing: a gesture deeply rooted in the human desire to communicate and preserve memory. The curves and lines of each letter, though utilitarian in purpose, evoke a sense of intimacy and personal expression. In medieval illuminated manuscripts, calligraphy was elevated to an art form, where the written word embodied spiritual truths. Similarly, the act of handwriting, especially in a letter, is a conduit through which emotions and thoughts are transmitted directly from one mind to another. Handwriting, unique as a fingerprint, reflects the writer's state of mind. The pressure, rhythm, and slant of the letters speak volumes, almost subconsciously conveying the writer’s emotions. This visceral connection echoes the ancient practice of using symbols to channel and understand human experiences. Schaap's handwriting offers us a profound connection to his inner world. Through this seemingly simple letter, we engage with a powerful, psychological force that resonates across time.