Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1891 - 1898

This letter, penned in 1891 by Jan Toorop, reveals more than just a friendly note. It's an insight into the artist’s creative process. The mention of "drawings of the Etch Club" alludes to the camaraderie among artists, reminiscent of ancient guilds passing down knowledge. The very act of writing—carefully forming each letter—echoes the broader human impulse to communicate and record our existence. The signature, a flourish of personal identity, becomes a symbol in itself, marking Toorop’s presence in the annals of art history. Think of how signatures have evolved, from medieval illuminators modestly placing their mark to the bold pronouncements of Renaissance masters. Each stroke carries the weight of ego, skill, and the desire for recognition, a psychological drama played out on parchment. This urge transcends time, resurfacing in street art and digital watermarks, a continuous thread connecting us through the ages.