Brief aan Andries Bonger before 1923

This is a letter from Émile Bernard to Andries Bonger, dating from May 1903. At the time, Bernard was deeply engaged with Symbolism and exploring the intersections of art, literature, and personal expression. The letter itself becomes a piece of art, reflecting Bernard's personal relationships and artistic values. The handwritten note gives the letter an intimate and immediate feel. The inclusion of a printed excerpt from “La Rénovation Esthétique” ties this correspondence to broader cultural and aesthetic conversations of the time. Bernard talks about exhibitions of his Egyptian works, music in his studio, and of friends who enjoyed one another's company. Bernard's letters often reveal his emotional intensity and his complex negotiations within the Parisian art scene. The casual reference to personal experiences and other artists offers insight into the cultural and social dynamics that shaped his artistic journey. It's a moment frozen in time, capturing the artist's voice and personality.