Fraktur, 1814

Summary

Early German immigrants created decorative documents, known as Fraktur, for a variety of reasons. Many commemorated a child's birth and baptism. Others were made as keepsakes, symbols of achievement or expressions of the immigrant's heritage or religion. These documents usually incorporated intricate lettering, elaborate borders and colorful drawings. In 1814, Rudolph Landes penned this religious letter and embellished it with stylized birds, flowers and a checkered border.

Early German immigrants created decorative documents, known as Fraktur, for a variety of reasons. Many commemorated a child's birth and baptism. Others were made as keepsakes, symbols of achievement or expressions of the immigrant's heritage or religion. These documents usually incorporated intricate lettering, elaborate borders and colorful drawings. In 1814, Rudolph Landes penned this religious letter and embellished it with stylized birds, flowers and a checkered border.

Artifact

Fraktur (Document)

Date Made

26 February 1814

Creators

Landes, Rudolph, 1789-1852 

Place of Creation

United States, Pennsylvania, Bucks county 

Creator Notes

Probably made in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

68.34.26

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)
Ink
Watercolor (Paint)

Technique

Watercolor painting (Technique)

Color

Red
Black (Color)
Yellow (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 10 in

Width: 8 in

Inscriptions

At bottom: Geschrieben bey Rudolph Landes den 26ten Februari Anno Do. 1814

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