Handtekening van Frans Decker 1694 - 1751

This is Frans Decker’s signature, made with ink on paper, likely around the mid-18th century. The paper itself is lined, giving it a sense of order and structure. The ink, applied with a quill or pen, flows with a delicate yet assertive hand. What strikes me most is the contrast between the formality suggested by the lines and the personal touch of the signature. Each stroke of the pen reflects the skill of the artist and the traditions of calligraphy, a practice that required years of training and discipline. The signature is not merely an identification mark, but a symbol of Decker’s identity, labor, and status. It reminds us that even the simplest materials can carry profound cultural and social meaning, challenging us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the artistry embedded in everyday objects.