Brief aan Andries Bonger before 1891

This is a letter written by Emile Bernard to Andries Bonger. The date is unknown. Bonger was a Dutch art collector, and he was also Vincent van Gogh's brother-in-law. Bernard's letter provides a glimpse into the complex social dynamics within the late 19th-century art world. It illuminates the intersecting themes of artistic identity, class, and emotional expression. Bernard expresses a desire to connect with Bonger on a deeper level, beyond the superficiality of polite society. We see this yearning for authentic emotional and artistic connection, "Oh! L'Eglise est pleine de ces appels constant." The act of writing itself becomes a performance, revealing the ways in which artists like Bernard navigated their social circles, while striving to maintain their artistic integrity. This letter serves as a personal testament and a historical document, reflecting the cultural values and social structures that shaped artistic production and reception. It shows us the intimate and intellectual exchanges that fueled creativity and innovation.