Gezicht op een kade met bouwmaterieel, mogelijk bij Prinseneiland te Amsterdam c. 1886 - 1903

George Hendrik Breitner sketched this view of a quay with building materials, possibly near Prinseneiland in Amsterdam, using graphite on paper. The immediacy of the graphite captures the rough textures of the scene, emphasizing its unfinished quality. Breitner's choice of graphite, a readily available material, mirrors the everyday subject matter. The sketch reveals the labor-intensive processes of construction and transport, hinting at the social context of urban development and the working class. Graphite as a medium allows for quick, raw marks, fitting for a scene of labor and industry. The stark lines and shading, achieved through the application of graphite, create a sense of depth and highlight the physicality of the materials. The work stands as a testament to the artist's ability to find beauty and meaning in the ordinary, bridging the gap between fine art and the realities of daily life.