When manipulating quantum systems with electromagnetic radiation, the spatial reso lution is usually constrained by the diffraction limit. To overcome this limitation, we have developed a fundamentally new approach, in which we attempt to coherently transmit electromagnetic excitation through the non-radiating near-field of a modulated electron beam. This could open a path to spectrally selective quantum control with nanoscale spatial resolution by exploiting the small de Broglie wavelength of electrons. In a proof of principle experiment we use a spatially modulated electron beam generated by a fast cathode ray tube from an analog oscilloscope to coherently drive the hyperfine levels of potassium [1]. To also show coherent manipulation of a solid state quantum system, we perform Electron Spin Resonance with a BDPA sample. In this experiment realization a microcoil is used to detect the decay of the excited spins. The deflection of the electron beam in two dimensions allows for creating painted potentials, e.g. to imitate polarized light in the microwave range.