Gezicht op Scheveningen 1880 - 1882

George Hendrik Breitner sketched this work, “Gezicht op Scheveningen”, using graphite on paper. As an artist working in the Netherlands during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Breitner situated himself amidst significant social and economic changes. He was particularly interested in capturing the lives of ordinary people, often depicting working-class subjects and urban scenes. In this sketch of Scheveningen, a coastal town, he seems most interested in mapping out the architecture and construction. The composition and perspective almost make the beach look like a construction site. Through his choice of subject matter, Breitner challenged traditional notions of what was considered worthy of artistic representation. Breitner himself once said, “Art is too important to be left to the artists.” His focus on everyday life and social realism invited viewers to reflect on the realities of their own society. He also evokes a sense of empathy and connection between the viewer and the depicted individuals. This work reflects how art can serve as a means of social commentary, shedding light on societal conditions and human experiences.