Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1921

This is a letter written by Rose Imel, dated October 16, 1921. The intimate nature of letter writing allows us to imagine the voices and emotions of people during this time. Imel's letter gives us a glimpse into the lives of women in the early 20th century. She mentions shopping for trinkets and dolls, hinting at the leisure activities available to women of a certain class, and her personal taste for Japanese-inspired items. The letter is written in French, which was considered the language of diplomacy, and also spoken among upper-class individuals in certain circles. She seems to be inquiring about an acquaintance’s health, her tone is one of genuine care and concern. Her words carry a warmth and sincerity that transcends time. The references to finding “bibelots à notre goût” and seeking “occasions!” speak to the ways in which personal expression and connection are valued aspects of the human experience.