Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1887 - 1888

This letter was written by William Ernest Henley to Philip Zilcken in London on August 26th, 1889. This piece of correspondence offers an intimate glimpse into the late 19th-century art world, revealing the intricate networks of artists, critics, and patrons that shaped artistic production and reception during this period. Henley's inquiry about Mancini and Jongkind, along with his request for the names and dates of Ter Meulen's writings, underscores the importance of artistic lineage and influence within the institutional framework of art. The mention of Willem Maris and "the Silvey" suggests a shared understanding of artistic trends and critical discourse. Henley’s letter is more than a personal note; it is a document of cultural exchange, reflecting the values, priorities, and social dynamics that governed the art world of its time. Letters like this, along with exhibition catalogs, artists’ biographies, and period publications, are crucial for understanding the institutional histories of art.