Wensbrief met gezicht op Delft 1856

This ‘Wensbrief met gezicht op Delft,’ or wish letter with a view of Delft, was made in the Netherlands in 1836 by an anonymous artist, using pen and ink with watercolor. This decorative manuscript combines religious verse with an image of the city of Delft, framed by gothic architectural motifs and floral patterns. The Dutch flag appears at the top, suggesting a statement of national identity. The combination of religious, civic, and national symbols highlights the values of the middle-class family for whom the letter was likely made. These letters were often commissioned to celebrate births, marriages, or other important life events. Art historians can analyze such documents for their symbolic content and their relationship to social and cultural values of the time. By consulting archival records, historical documents, and other primary sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the beliefs, aspirations, and social structures of 19th-century Dutch society.