Brief aan Filippo Tessaro Possibly 1890

This is a letter, addressed to Filippo Tessaro, written by Jozef Israëls. Israëls, born in 1824, lived during a time of significant social and political change in Europe. As a Jewish artist in the 19th century, Israëls navigated a complex identity, influenced by both his religious background and the broader cultural movements of the time. The letter itself, a personal correspondence, offers a glimpse into Israëls' relationships and concerns. One can imagine the artist carefully choosing his words, revealing not only the content of his message but also aspects of his own character and perspective. Consider the act of writing a letter in a time before digital communication. This was a deliberate act, a gesture of connection that required time and effort. What does this tell us about the value placed on personal relationships during this period? The letter asks us to reflect on the intimate and often unseen connections that shape our lives.