Brief aan Philip Zilcken 1876 - 1916

This letter to Philip Zilcken was written by Arend Hijner, an artist who lived through the social and political shifts of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this note, Hijner arranges a meeting, writing "Does it suit you if I come by at half-past eleven, as I have to leave the city today?". This glimpse into the daily life of artists in the Netherlands offers a contrast to the grand narratives of art history. The simplicity of the message and the casual tone reveal the everyday nature of artistic collaboration and friendship. The letter, a personal and intimate form of communication, invites us to reflect on the intersection of personal relationships and professional lives, highlighting the informal networks that support creative practice. It serves as a reminder that behind every artwork lies a web of human connections, shaping both the art and the artists themselves.