Vrouwen met hoeden c. 1895 - 1898

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch of women with hats using ink on paper. Unlike painting with oils, ink on paper requires a fast, almost performative approach. It's a very direct technique, where the artist is unable to rework the image, and must capture their subject with a sense of immediacy. Here, Breitner used a series of quick strokes and lines to create a sense of movement and energy. The thinness of the ink allows for delicate lines, perfect for capturing the subtle details of the women's hats and clothing. But it’s not just about showing what’s there, it's about the act of seeing and recording. The speed of execution creates an impression of modern life, reflecting a rapidly changing world. By focusing on the material and process, we can see that this sketch is not just a preliminary study, but a finished work of art in its own right. It shows a keen awareness of how materials and techniques can influence the final appearance and meaning of a piece.