Vrouwen 1893

This is "Vrouwen," a drawing by George Hendrik Breitner, held in the Rijksmuseum. The work captures fleeting impressions in graphite on paper, with dynamic, linear gestures defining the forms. Breitner's quick, almost frantic marks sketch women in scenes that appear both intimate and anonymous. His lines vary in weight, creating a sense of depth and movement. Observe how he uses the white space of the paper to suggest light and atmosphere, a technique common among Impressionists. This highlights the ephemeral nature of modern life, focusing on transient moments rather than static representations. The sketch destabilizes traditional portraiture, moving away from idealised forms and towards the raw, immediate experience of seeing. Ultimately, Breitner uses the sketch format not merely as a preliminary study but as a means to engage with the changing rhythms and perceptions of his time.