Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1896 - 1899

This is a letter by Thérèse Schwartze, an accomplished Dutch portrait painter, written to Philip Zilcken, an artist and art critic, at an unknown date. The letter offers a glimpse into the social and professional life of a woman artist in the late 19th century. Schwartze reflects on the challenges she faces as a "Dutch female artist," highlighting the biases and underestimations she encountered in a male-dominated art world. In the letter, Schwartze hopes that her portraits will be well received. She alludes to gendered expectations, revealing her need to rely on her "sympathetic woman's voice" to support fellow artists, which she describes as "necessary." The letter suggests the value of solidarity and mutual aid among women artists. By sharing her personal experiences and professional insights, Schwartze not only exposes the gender inequalities prevalent in the art world but also asserts her agency and resilience as a woman navigating these obstacles.