Brief aan anoniem (vermoedelijk Jeronimo de Vries) Possibly 1841

This letter was written in 1841 by David-Pierre Giottino Humbert de Superville. The most striking thing is the materiality of the letter itself. In this case, it is the writing and the paper that convey meaning. Consider the labor involved. From preparing the paper and ink, to the deliberate and careful penmanship. We can appreciate not only the content of the message, but also the time and skill required to produce it. The consistent stroke width suggests the use of a quill pen, and the evenness of the lettering speaks to the writer’s practiced hand. The layout of the text, carefully justified, shows the writer’s attention to detail and overall presentation. Letters like this were a primary means of communication. The act of writing was a valued skill, not just for transcribing information, but as a form of personal expression and social connection. This letter serves as a reminder of the value placed on craftsmanship, communication, and the tangible connection between individuals.