Gevelstudies c. 1886 - 1903

George Hendrik Breitner made these ‘Gevelstudies’, or ‘Facade Studies’, using a pencil on paper. These sketches offer insight into Breitner's artistic process and his interest in capturing the urban environment of late 19th-century Amsterdam. Breitner was known for his realist paintings and photographs of the city, and these sketches likely served as preparatory studies for larger works. In a rapidly changing society, artists were grappling with new ways of representing modern life. Breitner's focus on the everyday scenes of Amsterdam, rather than idealized or historical subjects, reflects this shift. His work challenges the traditional norms of academic art and embraces the gritty reality of urban existence. To fully understand Breitner's work, it's essential to consider the social and economic forces that shaped Amsterdam at the time. Archival materials, newspapers, and other primary sources can shed light on the historical context and provide a deeper appreciation for Breitner's artistic vision.