Studies en annotaties 1896 - 1901

George Hendrik Breitner created this study in the late 19th or early 20th century on paper, offering a fascinating glimpse into the artist's working process. Breitner, living in the Netherlands during a time of rapid urbanization and social change, was known for his gritty depictions of city life. These studies and annotations, though abstract, provide insight into the institutional structures of art production. Breitner made a name for himself in the Amsterdam art scene. The annotations and calculations, combined with quick sketches, reveal the artist grappling with dimensions, composition, and perhaps even pricing. The presence of annotations suggests a self-conscious awareness of the art market. Was he considering selling the work, or perhaps planning a larger composition? Understanding the social conditions that shaped Breitner's artistic production requires a look into the economic structures of the time, and archival research into his buyers might further reveal the dynamics of the Dutch art market. It's clear that the meaning of this study is contingent on its social and institutional context.