Meisjes 1896 - 1901

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch, titled 'Meisjes,' at an unknown date. Breitner lived during a time of rapid urbanization and social change in the Netherlands. This sketch provides a glimpse into the everyday lives of women in that era. The loose lines capture the transient nature of modern life, a world increasingly shaped by industrialization. Yet, in its simplicity, it invites us to contemplate the lives of these women. Breitner was known for his interest in capturing scenes from daily life and he did so despite the strict social expectations of women and how they should act and be represented. The anonymity of the figures allows us to project our own interpretations onto their identities and circumstances. This sketch prompts us to consider how art can function as a mirror, reflecting both the realities of a particular time and the enduring aspects of the human condition.