Brief aan Philip Zilcken 1858 - 1907

Joris-Karl Huysmans, the French novelist and art critic, penned this letter to Philip Zilcken, a Dutch artist, with ink on paper. The most striking aspect is the handwriting itself. Look closely at the loops and strokes. They carry the weight of intention and directness. The words are applied carefully to the page, each letter formed by a motion, however spontaneous it may seem. It represents a very intimate and hands-on process, one where the human touch is evident. In the late 19th Century, handwriting still carried a great deal of social significance, reflecting one's education, refinement, and personal character. It was a skill honed through years of practice, yet also a form of individual expression, with calligraphy prized as an art form. This letter stands as a testament to that intersection of craft and social grace, reminding us that even the most utilitarian of objects can be imbued with the maker's presence and cultural values.