Paarden 1881 - 1883

This is George Hendrik Breitner's sketch "Paarden," or "Horses," currently residing at the Rijksmuseum. Breitner, who lived from 1857 to 1923, was a Dutch painter known for his depictions of urban life in Amsterdam. During Breitner's time, horses were essential to the city's infrastructure, serving various roles from transportation to construction. Yet, his portrayal extends beyond mere representation; it delves into the social fabric woven by these animals. These aren't idealized steeds of the upper class; rather, they are the workhorses of the proletariat. There's a sense of empathy, a silent acknowledgment of their labor. Breitner himself noted his interest in capturing "the common street life" of the working class. The sketch, with its raw, unfinished quality, mirrors the grit and grime of the urban landscape, offering us a glimpse into the lives of those often overlooked in the grand narratives of history.