Brief aan de commissie van de Tentoonstelling van Levende Meesters in Den Haag Possibly 1861 - 1864

Here is a letter written in French by Eugène Lacomblé to the committee of the Exhibition of Living Masters in The Hague, dated June 10, 1861. Lacomblé, a Belgian artist active in the mid-19th century, likely penned this note to navigate the art world of his time, where acceptance into prestigious exhibitions was pivotal for career advancement and recognition. The letter, beyond its formal tone, hints at the complex dynamics artists faced. Lacomblé appeals to the jury to secure a place in the exhibition, reflecting the aspirations and anxieties of artists seeking validation and visibility in a competitive art scene. Gender and class also play a role; art exhibitions were dominated by men of a certain social standing, creating barriers for women and artists from marginalized backgrounds. Consider how this letter encapsulates the personal and professional stakes for artists within the socio-political context of 19th-century Europe. It reflects on how success was often determined by gatekeepers.