Brief aan August Allebé 1898

This letter was written by Hendrik Johannes Haverman to August Allebé likely in the late 19th or early 20th century with ink on paper. These everyday materials, combined with Haverman's handwriting, carry a significant amount of social and cultural weight. The paper itself is lined, suggesting it may have been repurposed from other uses, or simply the most accessible material at hand. The ink, though commonplace, carries a sense of permanence and formality, contrasting with the casual nature of the paper. The act of handwriting imbues the letter with a personal touch. The labor involved in producing this letter is evident. Each word is carefully formed, reflecting Haverman's skill and intention. The choice of materials and the act of writing connect this letter to a wider social context of communication and correspondence. The materials and processes of this letter challenge traditional distinctions between high art and craft. Here, the act of writing becomes a form of artistic expression, highlighting the inherent qualities of the materials and the human touch in its making.