Zittende vrouw 1881 - 1883

This sketch of a seated woman was created by George Hendrik Breitner, a Dutch artist active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Breitner was known for his realistic depictions of urban life in Amsterdam, and this sketch offers insight into his artistic process. The quick, loose lines suggest a moment captured spontaneously, revealing Breitner's interest in portraying everyday life. The woman's posture and clothing provide clues about the social context of the time. The Rijksmuseum's archives might contain photographs and documents relating to Dutch fashion of the period, which could help us learn more about the sitter's background and social standing. By studying Breitner's broader body of work alongside historical sources, we can better understand the social conditions that shaped his artistic vision. Ultimately, the interpretation of art requires us to consider its relationship to social and institutional history.