Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1898

This is Albert Baertsoen's "Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken," a postcard that offers us a glimpse into the artistic circles of the late 19th century. It's a personal artifact, a message sent between artists, which speaks volumes about the cultural exchanges of the time. The postcard format itself, popular during this period, democratized communication, allowing for quick, intimate exchanges. The handwritten note turns the card into an intimate form of communication and suggests a personal relationship between Baertsoen and Zilcken. The fact that both were artists situates this card within a specific socio-economic class and cultural milieu. It hints at the artistic networks and support systems that were crucial for artists. This small piece of ephemera evokes broader questions about artistic collaboration and the circulation of ideas. It serves as a reminder of the complex web of relationships that sustain artistic practice.