Gedicht aan Theresia Augusta Alida Allebé Possibly 1833

August Allebé made this drawing and poem for Theresia Augusta Alida Allebé in Amsterdam, in 1887. As an artist, August Allebé was closely involved in the art institutions of the Netherlands and particularly Amsterdam. This drawing gives us a glimpse into the artistic circles of the late 19th century Netherlands. We can understand that the poem is addressed to a beloved aunt from the opening lines. The poem is a lighthearted and affectionate verse, filled with well wishes. The small sketch on the left of a seated figure adds a personal touch. What makes it interesting from a social and cultural perspective is that August Allebé was director of the Rijksakademie in Amsterdam during this time. The poem and drawing gives us some insight into the social networks between artists and patrons. Historical research into the Allebé family, the Rijksakademie, and Dutch art of the 1880s helps to understand the social and cultural context of this poem. This helps us understand the public role of art in the Netherlands in the late 19th century.