Brief aan August Allebé Possibly 1908

This is "Brief aan August Allebé," a letter composed by E. de Haas on August 15, 1908, in Brussels. As a poignant artifact, it offers us a glimpse into the social and cultural milieu of the early 20th century. Written in French, the letter appears to be a note of condolence, expressing sympathy to "Cher monsieur Allebé." The act of writing, especially in times of grief, speaks volumes about the social etiquette and the emotional labour involved in maintaining relationships. During this era, letter writing was a primary means of communication, and the language used was often formal and carefully chosen to convey respect and empathy. Consider how the simple act of writing this letter connects the sender and receiver across distance and emotion. This piece embodies the intersection of personal sentiment and societal expectations, revealing a moment of shared humanity.