Brief aan Andries Bonger 1892

This is a letter written by the French artist Emile Bernard to Andries Bonger. Although undated, it gives us an insight into the personal relationships that underpinned the Parisian art world. The letter itself becomes a form of artistic expression. Through the flourishes of his handwriting, Bernard crafts the letter, carefully considering its aesthetic. Made in France, it is also a document of social and institutional history. Bernard reflects on his experience of the art world and his frustrations with commercialism. Written in French, the language of diplomacy and the elite, the letter can be seen as a carefully constructed performance. Understanding the social and institutional context helps us interpret the letter beyond its literal meaning. By researching the correspondence between artists and their patrons, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social dynamics that shaped the production and reception of art in 19th-century France.