Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1896

This "Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken" by Vittorio Pica is an artifact of paper, ink, and industrialized postal systems. It is a humble rectangle carrying signs of social interaction. Its materiality speaks to the rise of mass communication. The card itself, likely wood pulp-based, embodies industrial production. Printed designs standardize the format. Seals and stamps denote its journey through postal networks, connecting sender to recipient across geographical distances. The handwritten message adds a personal touch, contrasting with the card's industrial nature. Consider the labor involved: from forestry to printing, delivery, and the simple act of writing. The card embodies late 19th and early 20th century life, capturing a moment in time. It challenges the hierarchy between art and ephemera, reminding us that everyday objects can carry significant social and cultural meaning.