Brief aan Jan Veth Possibly 1891 - 1899

This is a letter written by Richard Nicolaüs Roland Holst to Jan Veth, dating back to July 9, 1891. It reflects the social and intellectual circles of artists and critics in the Netherlands at the time. The letter itself is a material artifact, a tangible connection to the past that offers insights into personal relationships and artistic discussions. The handwritten script suggests a level of intimacy and informality, while its contents discuss exhibitions, critical opinions, and artistic acquaintances. Here we see the social world of art being actively constructed through conversations and correspondence. We can also discern the institutional structure of artistic validation, such as openings and exhibitions. To fully understand this letter's significance, a historian might consult archives, biographies, and exhibition records, piecing together the network of relationships and events to which it alludes. We can better understand the meaning and value of art when we acknowledge its reliance on broader social and institutional contexts.