Twee liggende koeien 1887 - 1889

George Hendrik Breitner sketched "Twee liggende koeien" with pencil on paper. The drawing presents two cows in repose, rendered with loose, energetic lines. This sketch offers a study in form and posture. Breitner's composition captures the essence of these animals with an economy of means. The lines are not precise, but rather suggestive, focusing on the mass and volume of the cows’ bodies. The texture of the paper adds another layer, contrasting with the smooth strokes of the pencil. The overlaying sketch lines create a semi-transparent structure, an almost ghostly presence. Breitner was known for his interest in capturing fleeting moments of everyday life. Here, he reduces the cows to their most fundamental forms, exploring the interplay between light and shadow. This approach aligns with the broader artistic concerns of his time, where artists sought to break down traditional modes of representation. Breitner captures not just the appearance but the very structure of his subject.