Brief aan Frans Buffa en Zonen 1790 - 1951

This is "Brief aan Frans Buffa en Zonen," a letter by G.W. de Vos van Steenwijk with no specific date. It offers us a personal glimpse into the social and cultural exchanges of the time. Written in Dutch, the letter suggests a transaction or discussion related to a collection of artworks, mentioning pieces like 'La Coupe delamité' and 'La maison de (anderwerpen de pompéi).' The language and references point to a world where art was not just an object of beauty, but also a commodity within a network of collectors and dealers. The letterhead, the handwriting, and the very act of correspondence all speak to a specific class and social structure. It highlights the importance of written communication in conducting business and maintaining relationships. It emphasizes the personal element in the art world of the past. It’s a reminder that art history is not just about the art itself, but about the people, the relationships, and the societal contexts that shape its creation and circulation.