Brief aan Héloïse Bernard-Bodin 1878 - 1941

This is a letter, written in French with pen and ink by Emile Bernard in 1894. The letter reveals aspects of Bernard’s personal life, and it also allows us to imagine the social and cultural milieu of artists in France at this time. Bernard was a Post-Impressionist painter who was associated with the Pont-Aven School and friends with artists such as Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh. Looking at this letter, one might consider the institutional history of art schools in France and the artistic circles that developed around them. The letter hints at Bernard's relationships, travels, and thoughts on marriage. He mentions someone named Tanet, expresses a desire for success in his endeavors, and declares, “Je me marie,” which means “I am getting married.” Bernard requests the blessing of the addressee’s father. The letter implies concerns with social standing. Bernard notes that his future wife is Syrian and not rich, but hardworking. To fully understand this artwork, scholars might examine the artist's biography, social history, and the cultural context of 19th-century France.