Brief aan Philip Zicken 1867 - 1930

Aletta Ruijsch, a Dutch artist born in 1860, penned this letter to Philip Zicken. Its cultural significance extends beyond the immediate content. Ruijsch was a prominent member of the Hague School, a group of artists known for their realist and impressionistic styles. The letter provides a glimpse into the social networks and relationships that sustained artistic production in the Netherlands at the turn of the 20th century. Letters served as vital tools for communication, fostering a sense of community among artists and patrons, and facilitating the exchange of ideas. The art world was heavily reliant on personal connections, with artists often depending on the support and patronage of individuals within their social circles. To fully appreciate the nuances of this letter, we can delve into archival research, exploring the correspondence and writings of Ruijsch and her contemporaries. This will help to contextualize the artwork, shedding light on the social and institutional forces that shaped the art world in the Netherlands.