Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1889

This briefkaart, or postcard, was sent to Philip Zilcken by Anthon van Rappard in 1889, made from commercially produced cardstock. The card itself bears a printed heading and official stamps, indications of a modern postal system and its intersection with everyday life. The message, carefully handwritten in ink, carries a personal touch, yet exists within the framework of mass communication. Consider the labor involved in producing the cardstock, printing the design, and the infrastructure required for distribution. The contrast between the industrialized card and the handwritten message highlights the changing nature of communication in the late 19th century. This seemingly simple artifact encapsulates broader themes of industrialization, labor, and the evolving social fabric of the time. By examining such humble objects, we gain insight into the complex interplay between artistic practice, mass production, and personal expression.