Franse soldaten in de Auberge Bourgerie te Bazeilles 1872 - 1879

This sketch, "French Soldiers in the Auberge Bourgerie in Bazeilles," was made by George Hendrik Breitner, a Dutch artist known for his gritty depictions of urban life. Breitner lived through a time of significant social change and political tension. As a Dutchman, the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71 and the subsequent rise of nationalism across Europe would have shaped his artistic vision. In this work, Breitner captures a scene of French soldiers, their postures suggesting a mix of weariness and watchfulness. The sketch offers a glimpse into the lives of men caught in the machinery of war, highlighting the mundane moments amidst conflict. It invites us to consider the emotional toll of war on individuals, regardless of their nationality or allegiance. Breitner’s choice to depict this scene through the perspective of an outsider adds another layer, prompting reflections on neutrality, observation, and the human condition during wartime.