Brief aan Jan Veth Possibly 1889

This is a letter to Jan Veth, handwritten in Amsterdam on September 2nd, likely 1894. The material is paper and ink. We can see van Hall's skill in his penmanship, how the nib of his pen swells and narrows with each stroke. The pressure and flow are consistent, suggesting a practiced hand. Think of the labor involved in producing such an everyday object, where handwriting was the primary mode of communication. The texture of the paper, its absorbency, would have also played a role, influencing the ink's flow and drying time. Consider the time taken to produce the letter by hand, from crafting each word to sealing and sending it. This contrasts sharply with the speed and efficiency of modern digital communication. The letter embodies a slower, more deliberate pace of life, where personal connection was valued over instantaneity. This is not just a document; it's a trace of van Hall's thoughts, emotions, and physical presence. It bridges the gap between artist, artwork and the time it was made, making it a tangible piece of history.