Studie c. 1882 - 1912

This is a sketch by George Hendrik Breitner, now held at the Rijksmuseum. It gives us a glimpse into the artistic process in the Netherlands during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Breitner was known for his depictions of everyday life in Amsterdam. Here, he has captured a quick impression of a domestic interior. We see what appears to be a table and chairs, rendered with minimal lines. This approach reflects the growing interest in capturing fleeting moments and the realities of modern urban life. Breitner was associated with the Amsterdam Impressionism movement, a local variant of the broader Impressionist movement. This sketch provides insights into the artist's working methods. By studying his sketches alongside his finished paintings, one can gain a better understanding of Breitner's artistic vision and how he sought to represent the changing social landscape of his time.