Paard, van achteren gezien 1883 - 1885

This is 'Paard, van achteren gezien', a drawing by George Hendrik Breitner held at the Rijksmuseum. The work immediately strikes us with its simple yet evocative composition. Breitner uses quick, expressive lines to capture the form of a horse from behind. The limited tonal range focuses our attention on the lines themselves. These vary in weight and intensity to suggest depth and volume. Breitner's sketch exemplifies an interest in capturing fleeting moments and the raw essence of his subjects. The drawing employs a kind of visual shorthand, inviting viewers to fill in the details and complete the image in their minds. It engages with broader artistic concerns about perception and representation. The sketch destabilizes traditional artistic values. It prioritizes immediacy and authenticity over detailed representation. This emphasis shifts our understanding of what constitutes a finished work of art and encourages a dynamic interaction between the artwork and the viewer.