Aantekeningen 1867 - 1930

Curator: This intriguing piece, entitled "Aantekeningen," which translates to "Notes," is a drawing on paper created sometime between 1867 and 1930, housed right here at the Rijksmuseum. It's attributed to Philip Zilcken. Editor: It gives off the air of something deeply personal. It has the distinct look of stream of conscious thought made manifest—almost like we’re peering into someone’s diary. Curator: Indeed! The use of pencil and ink lends itself to a feeling of spontaneity, wouldn’t you agree? The almost ghostly appearance and the delicate calligraphy really heighten the impact. Editor: The calligraphy definitely gives it a very artistic quality, a crafted aesthetic in the midst of this intimate reflection. Did Zilcken intend for this to be seen or was it just a tool, an outpouring of the heart and mind? Curator: Knowing Zilcken’s broader oeuvre as an artist, and in view of his exquisite printmaking skills, one might propose the thought of this piece representing something beyond a mere aide-mémoire. Editor: Perhaps a deliberate performance, then? In contrast to our modern moment—a kind of intentional revelation of intimacy rather than candid expression of what otherwise would remain a private matter? Curator: You highlight something crucial about works on paper, don't you? The apparent transparency…it begs the question of what the "truth" of the medium, that of “drawing” may be; is it really, transparent, or more opaque, or some peculiar mix? Editor: Precisely! Well, I for one am thrilled by what we have come up with today: the sheer magic inherent within these materials combined with the deeply human element on full display, of someone simply reaching towards the creative ether.