Man bij een rund 1881 - 1883

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch of a man with cattle in the late 19th or early 20th century. Breitner, a leading figure in the Amsterdam Impressionism movement, often depicted scenes of daily life. This drawing, though simple, reflects the social realities of the Netherlands at the time. As an urbanizing country, it was still dependent on its agricultural industry. Breitner's choice of subject matter suggests an interest in the working class, a theme that resonated with progressive artistic circles. The sketch is indicative of the modern artist moving away from traditional, academic subjects in favor of more contemporary social themes. As art historians, we can look to sources such as the artist's letters, exhibition reviews, and social surveys of the period to better understand the motivations and context behind Breitner's work. By analyzing the social and institutional frameworks that influenced Breitner, we gain insight into the broader cultural values of his time.