Brief aan Frans Buffa en Zonen Possibly 1877

This handwritten letter, penned by William Unger to Frans Buffa en Zonen, offers an intimate glimpse into the social dynamics of the 19th century art world. Unger, born in 1837, was a master of engraving, a process of translating artworks into reproducible prints. The letter speaks of reciprocal relationships—Unger is both indebted to and critical of those he addresses. His tone is revealing; he acknowledges the complexities of human character, expressing a mix of gratitude and discomfort with the letter’s contents. We sense a tension between societal expectations and personal integrity, which might reflect the artist’s own negotiation of his role within the art market. The text alludes to a promise unkept. It leaves us to wonder about the circumstances surrounding his change of heart. This letter is charged with the emotional weight of an artist navigating a world of patronage, artistic integrity, and human relationships. It serves as a reminder of the personal dimensions behind the creation and circulation of art.