Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1884 - 1889

This letter, written by Charles Albert Waltner on squared paper on the 29th of April 1924, provides a window into the social networks of artists in the early 20th century. Waltner addresses Monsieur Zilcken, responding to a request regarding "2 eau-fortes graves," or two strong etchings, produced under Zilcken's direction. He explains that teaching lessons would be an accident; he only teaches people he's known for a long time, and he is too busy at the moment. The letter is a polite refusal, where Waltner assures Monsieur Zilcken of his high consideration. This correspondence hints at a hierarchical structure within the art world, where established artists were approached for guidance. It underscores the importance of personal connections and the selective nature of artistic mentorship. It also reveals the constraints artists faced in balancing their personal work with the demands of teaching, reflecting a tension many still negotiate today.