Zittende figuur, mogelijk in een stal 1884 - 1886

This sketch of a figure, possibly in a stable, was made by George Hendrik Breitner using graphite on paper. The immediacy of graphite lends itself to capturing fleeting moments, and Breitner uses this to his advantage. Notice the quick, expressive lines that define the figure and the surrounding environment. The varying pressure of the graphite creates depth and shadow, giving the impression of a dimly lit interior. It’s tempting to view it simply as a preparatory study, but consider the broader context of 19th-century artistic practice. Artists like Breitner often sought to capture the everyday lives of working people, elevating these scenes to the level of high art. The choice of graphite, a readily available and relatively inexpensive material, also speaks to this sensibility, a democratic turn away from the preciousness of oil paint. This drawing is not only a study of form and light, but a glimpse into the social realities of Breitner’s time. It challenges traditional hierarchies, blurring the lines between the sketch and the finished artwork.