Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1916

Curator: Before us is "Brief aan Philip Zilcken," speculated to be from 1916, created by Alphonse Stengelin. The artwork utilizes pen and ink on paper. Editor: It gives me the feeling of looking at something incredibly personal, almost secretive. The faded ink and delicate script evoke a strong sense of intimacy and perhaps even fragility, given the apparent age of the letter. Curator: Indeed. Considering the era, the letter’s materiality – pen, ink, and paper – offers an intriguing glimpse into Stengelin’s practice. Penmanship was a significant skill and a primary mode of communication. We see the artist engaging directly with materials readily available, thus democratizing the means of artistic expression to some extent. Editor: Beyond the material reality, let’s consider the letter’s content, penned during a turbulent period, possibly during the throes of World War I. Notice the language used: “La guerre! cette idée fixe obsède!” or "The war! this fixed idea obsesses!" Stengelin imbues “war” with significant symbolic weight – something looming over personal connection. There’s a deep sense of unease permeating his words. Curator: Absolutely, but the letter also reflects Stengelin's social connections and his artistic network during a time of conflict. The act of writing, even with accessible materials, was a powerful form of connection when other resources might have been scarce or unavailable. The letter form itself carries specific social and artistic conventions. Editor: And the fact that he is corresponding with Philip Zilcken! What did Zilcken symbolize in the artistic ecosystem? Curator: Precisely! So, to recap, through the lens of materiality and process, this simple letter allows us to understand how readily available tools facilitate self-expression and connection amidst disruption. Editor: And the symbols – war, obsession, friendship – highlight both a personal narrative and the larger historical context influencing human relations and creative endeavors. A moving synthesis, to be sure.