Figuurstudies en een wagen 1880 - 1882

George Hendrik Breitner made this drawing, titled "Figuurstudies en een wagen", around the turn of the 20th century. It captures figures and a wagon in a quick sketch. Breitner, working in the Netherlands, was known for depicting the bustling city life of Amsterdam. While this drawing might seem like a simple study, it reflects the changing urban landscape of the time. The wagon suggests trade and transport, essential to the city's economy. Breitner's focus on everyday scenes and ordinary people was a departure from traditional art. Breitner was associated with the Amsterdam Impressionism movement. He embraced the gritty realities of modern life. His work challenged the art establishment, which had long favored idealized or historical subjects. To fully understand Breitner's art, we need to explore the social and economic conditions of the Netherlands during his time, the rise of industrialization, and the changing class structures.