Brief aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1901 - 1905

This is a letter to Philip Zilcken, written in ink on paper, by Léonce Bénédite in January 1901. Look at the way the ink bleeds slightly into the paper, and the idiosyncratic loops and crosses of the letters. It reminds me of Cy Twombly, but in miniature. The pressure of the pen varies, creating a rhythm of thick and thin lines. Notice the flourish of the 'S' in January, a confident swoop that contrasts with the more hesitant strokes in the body of the text. It gives the impression of someone thinking as they write, each word a small, considered gesture. These intimate details, the texture of the writing and the physical act of inscription, bring us closer to the artist's presence, offering a glimpse into his thoughts and intentions. This piece shows art isn’t just about the final product, but also the human process.