Man bij twee grazende dieren, mogelijk koeien 1884 - 1886

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch of a man with grazing animals – possibly cows – using graphite on paper. The ephemeral nature of graphite lends itself well to capturing fleeting moments, and this work certainly feels like a scene observed in passing. The marks are quick, gestural, and seemingly effortless. But don’t be fooled by the simplicity of its creation; Breitner was a master of his medium, and this sketch showcases his deft skill in capturing the essence of form and movement with minimal means. The visible paper shows that the artist made this on location, en plein air. Interestingly, graphite itself has a history rooted in labor and industry. Mined from the earth, it becomes a tool for both artistic expression and technical drawing. In this context, Breitner’s choice of material connects the artwork to broader social issues of labor, production, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. By focusing on the materials and processes behind this sketch, we can appreciate the artistry of Breitner’s work.