Brief aan Alexander Oltmans jr. Possibly 1847 - 1848

Henri François Schaefels penned this letter to Alexander Oltmans, Jr., seeking support for his work. Written in French, a language of diplomacy and the elite, the letter reveals the intricate dance artists performed to gain patronage and recognition in the 19th century. Schaefels, born in Belgium, found himself in a society undergoing rapid industrialization and political change. His identity as an artist was thus shaped by the need to navigate these shifting cultural currents. The letter hints at the complex interplay of class and artistic value. Schaefels appeals to Oltmans' "honorable" standing, acknowledging the power dynamics inherent in their relationship. He is negotiating both his artistic reputation and his economic survival. Consider the vulnerability of an artist seeking validation, the subtle power plays within the art world. The letter isn't just ink on paper; it is a testament to the lived experiences of artists who shaped our visual landscape.