Brief aan Frans Buffa en Zonen Possibly 1877

This letter to Frans Buffa en Zonen was penned in Vienna in 1887 by William Unger, a Dutch etcher and art critic. The late 19th century saw a flourishing of printmaking as a democratic art form, and Unger was a leading figure, celebrated for his technical skill and historical knowledge. This letter, written in German, gives us insight into the labor and relationships behind the art world. Unger assures his correspondent that he will deliver the plates necessary for the next gallery shipment in March. The emotional tenor of the letter reflects the intersection of commerce and personal relations. It closes with an apology for the delay. Consider the ways in which the circulation of art relies on networks of communication, negotiation, and promise. This letter offers a glimpse into those networks, reminding us that art is not just about individual genius, but about collaboration, communication, and the conditions that allow for its production and dissemination.