Gezicht op de Westerkerk in Amsterdam 1898

George Hendrik Breitner created this sketch of the Westerkerk in Amsterdam using graphite on paper, likely at the turn of the 20th century. The rapid lines and notations offer a glimpse into the artist's process. Breitner was interested in capturing the immediacy of urban life, and this sketch provides insight into the social conditions of Amsterdam at the time. As the city grew, the Westerkerk remained a focal point, witnessing the changing social landscape around it. Understanding Breitner’s work requires us to consider the institutional and cultural context in which it was made. By exploring archives and historical documents, we gain a deeper appreciation for the social meaning embedded in this seemingly simple sketch and the dialogue the artist engages in with his contemporaries.