Brief aan Jan Veth 1865 - 1925

This handwritten letter was penned by Jac van Looij to Jan Veth in 1904. It reveals not only the personal relationship between these two figures but also touches on the social and cultural milieu of the Dutch art world at the turn of the century. Van Looij mentions returning from a lecture by Verhaeren, a celebrated Belgian poet, suggesting the interconnectedness of artistic circles across national borders and artistic disciplines. The reference to Haarlem, Van Looij's birthplace, roots him in a specific regional identity within the Netherlands, a detail that enriches our understanding of the artist’s background and influences. The note about seeing "derkin" with his wife through a train window offers a glimpse into the everyday encounters that might inspire an artist's imagination. To fully appreciate the letter's significance, a historian would delve into the correspondence between Van Looij and Veth, seeking further context within their personal and professional exchanges. By situating this letter within its historical and institutional context, we reveal the rich tapestry of social relationships and cultural influences that shaped the art of its time.