Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1914 - 1916

This is a letter written in 1914 by Christiaan Snouck Hurgronje, a Dutch scholar of Oriental Studies, to Philip Zilcken. Hurgronje had a profound impact on Dutch colonial policy through his extensive study of Islam and his work as an advisor on Islamic affairs. This letter is a seemingly simple introduction of an American friend, Charles W. Crane, a collector of paintings from Tiflis. However, the act of writing and corresponding during this period becomes a powerful tool, connecting individuals across geographical and cultural divides, especially in the context of colonial power dynamics. Hurgronje’s expertise in Islamic culture lent authority to his political advice, which often had significant implications for colonial subjects. The emotional weight of this letter lies in its quiet revelation of connection and cultural exchange amidst the backdrop of a world on the brink of war. It subtly hints at the complex relationships between personal interests, academic pursuits, and the broader political landscape.