The Facebook of 400 Years Ago

Once upon a time, before computers or even photography, young people in France, Germany, and the Netherlands would keep journals called alba amicorum, which translates from Latin to “friend books.” Young men would use them to document their travels and education, and have teachers and experts write -or draw- in them. They could eventually be used as resumes. Girls made their own books, and had their friends add art, poetry, and personal notes to them. They became a document of events and relationships. There’s more to learn and fascinating images at Messy Nessy Chic. -via the Presurfer