Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1928

Curator: This intriguing piece is a letter titled "Brief aan Philip Zilcken," possibly from 1928, crafted by Simonne Ratel. It appears to be a pen and ink drawing on paper, showcasing her skill in calligraphy and hand-lettering. Editor: It strikes me as intensely personal, doesn't it? The handwriting, though elegant, feels rushed, filled with an almost desperate energy. There's a sense of urgency captured in ink on this fragile paper. Curator: Ratel was deeply involved in the Parisian art scene; correspondence was vital for artistic exchange and promotion. Zilcken, a well-regarded art critic, clearly held sway, evidenced by Ratel's somewhat apologetic tone. These letters reflect the socio-political forces operating behind the curtains that decided an artist's path at that time. Editor: Right, you feel the anxiety in the careful looping letters, especially around the words concerning an article of his. It makes me think of artists struggling for recognition, the personal vulnerability mixed with an ambition laid bare. The visual aesthetic of calligraphy enhances that—a deeply refined skill used to literally write her fate. Curator: Absolutely, and the very act of handwriting personalizes the communication far more than a printed type might convey. The drawing elements add to this too, offering insight into her artistic process alongside the transactional need of influencing a critic. Editor: So much humanity resides in what may seem to modern eyes an archaic form. This letter carries so much weight precisely because we see the very hand—its flourish and imperfections alike—pleading its case. This image becomes almost sculptural—layering communication and yearning. It reminds us art making often transcends just art. Curator: It's a poignant reminder of how artists navigated the structures of their time, showcasing both Ratel's talent and the societal currents that shaped her career. Editor: Indeed, making one wonder what would the "penmanship" of our digital age communicate of an artist’s longings?