Brief aan Jan Veth Possibly 1895 - 1899

This letter was written by Chap van Deventer on September 7th, 1895, and as we can see, it consists of ink on paper, humble materials, but rich in implication. The apparent simplicity of these materials is deceptive. The act of handwriting itself is a technology, dependent on the mass manufacture of both paper and ink. The letter testifies to a relationship, of course, but also to a wider network of exchange, of which Deventer and his correspondent were a part. The quality of the handwriting, too, speaks to social status. Penmanship was a skill taught to those with the privilege of education. Ultimately, it is the directness and intimacy of this letter that provides the most meaning. Its tactile quality allows us to imagine Deventer's presence, as he put pen to paper, to communicate with a friend. So, even the simplest materials can connect us to history and human experience.