Envelop aan Philip Zilcken before 1916

This is an envelope addressed to Philip Zilcken, likely produced in Belgium and delivered to The Hague, Netherlands. We can tell this from the language used, the stamp, and the address itself, all providing insights into the social and institutional history of the late 19th or early 20th century. The handwritten address reflects a time before widespread typewriters and computers, when penmanship was a valued skill. The use of French in the address, "Monsieur," points to the cultural influence of France in Belgium and international correspondence. It shows us a social etiquette that may no longer be in use today. Postal history, stamp collecting, and genealogical research can further illuminate the context of this artifact. By examining old city directories and archival records, we can learn more about the sender, the recipient, and the circumstances surrounding the letter's creation and delivery, understanding this artwork as a relic of its time.