Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1895

Cees Verster made this postcard to Philip Zilcken; it offers a snapshot into the world of artists at the turn of the century. Postcards like this weren't just functional; they were a form of social networking, connecting artists across geographical distances. The handwritten address and the stamp mark this card as a means of communication, yet its survival transforms it into an artifact. It speaks to the role of patronage and artistic communities in shaping an artist's career. Who were these men writing to each other? What were their artistic and cultural contexts? Such correspondence can serve as an emotional touchstone, linking us to a time when personal connections were fostered through handwritten notes. This card is a tangible reminder of artistic dialogue and collaboration.