Proefdruk voor 'Paul Verlaine. Correspondance et documents inédits relatifs à son livre "Quinze jours en Hollande"' uit archief Philip Zilcken before 1897

This is a proof print by Stéphane Mallarmé, a glimpse into the literary circles of the late 19th century. The handwritten script, with its elegant loops and flourishes, embodies a bygone era of correspondence, evoking a sense of intimacy and personal connection. Consider the stamp, a symbol of nationhood and communication, which has its roots in antiquity. We find stamps used to mark property, a primitive form of branding dating back to ancient civilizations. Over time, the stamp evolved from a utilitarian marker to a symbol of power and authority. In modern times, stamps have taken on new meanings, representing everything from political movements to artistic expression. The very act of writing, the formation of each letter, is a physical manifestation of thought, an intimate connection between the mind and the material world. This letter embodies a deep sense of nostalgia and a profound appreciation for the power of human connection.