Dubbelgevouwen blad papier, met facsimilé van een brief van J.C.J. van Speyk aan mevr. De Dieu-van Tonderen Possibly 1830

This is a facsimile of a letter, dating back to an unknown date and written by Jan Carel Josephus van Speijk, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. Van Speijk, a Dutch naval hero, penned this letter, offering a glimpse into his personal thoughts and experiences. The letter provides insight into the cultural and political climate of the Netherlands during Van Speijk's time. As a naval officer, his life was shaped by the country's maritime history and colonial ambitions. In his letter, Van Speijk details the challenges and experiences of war. He talks about his boat and his well-being, and expresses his feelings about war. "My boat is safe, but it is clear that it is still in danger", in his own words. The emotional weight of Van Speijk’s words reflects the anxieties and uncertainties faced by those involved in conflict. The letter serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war, and highlights the personal dimensions of historical events.