Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1913

This postcard, sent to Philip Zilcken by Gerke Henkes, offers a glimpse into the early 20th century, with a material presence far beyond its simple form. The card itself, machine-made from processed wood pulp, embodies the rise of industrial production and the increasing accessibility of communication. Its surface, likely coated to receive ink, reveals the traces of mass printing: the pre-printed "Briefkaart" text, the Dutch coat of arms, and the address lines, all aligning with the standardization of postal services. The handwritten message, the ink impressions of postage and cancellation marks, adds a layer of personal touch, contrasting with the card’s manufactured origins. The stamp, a mass-produced commodity, embodies a value dictated by the state, enabling the circulation of this humble object across space. Consider the amount of labor involved in the production of the card, from the harvesting of raw materials to its distribution. This postcard serves as a reminder of the intimate connections between art, communication, and the industrial forces shaping everyday life.