Briefpapier van Bureau voor Boekversiering Mimosa 1884 - 1952

This letterhead by Reinier Willem Petrus de Vries is all about the business of beauty. I can imagine De Vries at his drawing board, meticulously inking each curve and flourish. It's like he's building a little stage set for the words to come, a decorative proscenium arch. The Art Nouveau style is so distinctive with its elegant lines and naturalistic motifs – it's like the letters themselves are growing out of vines. You can see the influence of artists like Aubrey Beardsley and Jan Toorop, who were also pushing the boundaries of graphic design at the time. I wonder what kind of person sends a letter on this stationery? Someone who appreciates the finer things, for sure. Someone who understands that even the most mundane communication can be elevated with a touch of artistry. This letterhead makes me think about how design can shape our perceptions and add value to everyday objects. It's a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. It invites us to be more intentional about the way we communicate with one another.