Cavaleristen c. 1873 - 1923

George Hendrik Breitner made this pencil drawing of cavalerists, sometime between 1880 and 1923. The immediacy of pencil on paper is key to understanding this work. The thin graphite lines convey a sense of movement and capture the essential forms of the horses and riders. Pencil is a humble material, intimately connected to labor, design, and documentation. It allows for quick sketches and preliminary studies, playing a crucial role in the artistic process. The choice of pencil also reflects a democratic approach to art-making, and a focus on observation. In Breitner's time, rapid industrialization and urbanization transformed society, impacting the lives of laborers and soldiers alike. By using such simple means, Breitner connects to the everyday experiences of the world around him. The sketch emphasizes the importance of the artist's hand and eye in capturing the essence of a scene. Ultimately, this drawing invites us to appreciate the beauty and significance found in the materials and processes of art-making, and the artistic intention behind it.