Briefkaart aan Jan Veth before 1896

This “Briefkaart aan Jan Veth” was created in 1896 by Jacoba Cornelia Jolles-Singels, using humble materials: paper, ink, and a two-and-a-half cent stamp. We can consider the social context and processes of this postcard. In the late 19th century, advancements in printing and postal services democratized communication. A postcard like this one reflects the rise of mass media and the increasing accessibility of information exchange. Notice the handwriting, a direct imprint of the sender's hand and personality, contrasting with the mass-produced card. It is an intimate message within a standardized format. The stamp and postmark indicate not just a monetary value, but also the labor of postal workers, the infrastructure of transportation, and the systems of bureaucracy required to deliver this simple message. Considering the materials and processes involved, it is evident that everyday objects like this postcard are not merely functional items, but cultural artifacts imbued with social meaning and human connection. They collapse traditional hierarchies between art, craft, and design.