Brief aan Jan Veth Possibly 1889

This is a black ink letter written by Chap van Deventer on off-white paper. The dominant visual experience comes from the shapes of the letterforms themselves, their varying densities creating textured patterns across the page. This visual architecture of script evokes the intimacy and intentionality of hand-written correspondence. The letter is an intriguing artifact. The text is set out in a traditional format of a letter with right justification. The letter, while appearing personal and spontaneous, adheres to a certain formal structure, thereby emphasizing the tension between individual expression and the conventions of language. This tension destabilizes fixed meanings by questioning the spontaneity of writing through the act of applying strict structure. Note the texture created by the layering of ink on paper. This materiality acts as a signifier, reminding us that meaning is also constructed through physical engagement with the artwork, inviting continued interpretation.