Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken before 1899

This is a briefkaart, or postcard, sent to Philip Zilcken by Jan Toorop, likely in December of 1916, and now held at the Rijksmuseum. Postcards provide a fascinating insight into the social and cultural history of the early 20th century. The stamps and postal marks reveal the complexities of the postal service in the Netherlands during the first World War. Zilcken, the recipient, was also a well-known artist, critic, and collector, making this postcard a document of artistic exchange. By examining archives and correspondence, we can better understand Toorop’s social circle and how his work intersected with the artistic and intellectual life of the time. Postcards are a reminder that art history is not just about masterpieces, but also about the everyday exchanges that shape artistic production.