Brief aan Carel Vosmaer Possibly 1884

This is "Brief aan Carel Vosmaer", a letter written on the 23rd of March 1884 by Laura Theresa Alma-Tadema. Alma-Tadema's correspondence offers a glimpse into the Victorian art world and her position as a woman within it. While her husband, Lawrence Alma-Tadema, enjoyed significant acclaim, Laura also navigated the art scene, often with his support. In this letter to Carel Vosmaer, she expresses gratitude for his assistance with a portrait by Edwin Austin Abbey. Note her apologetic tone, she is "ashamed" to not have written sooner. This reflects the social expectations placed upon women of her era, who were expected to maintain correspondence and social graces. The mention of "Mr. Abbey" highlights the collaborative networks within the art world. Here, Alma-Tadema acts as a conduit, conveying appreciation on behalf of another male artist. Ultimately, this brief note encapsulates the intersection of gender, artistic collaboration, and social expectations in the late 19th century.