Gezicht op het Rokin te Amsterdam 1895 - 1898

This pencil drawing, "Gezicht op het Rokin te Amsterdam," was created by George Hendrik Breitner sometime between 1880 and 1923. The artist’s hand is evident in the quick, light strokes that capture the essence of the urban landscape. Note the texture of the paper, its lined surface a subtle grid against which the sketch unfolds. The immediacy of the pencil on paper suggests a moment captured in time, a fleeting impression recorded with efficiency. The use of pencil, a humble yet versatile material, democratizes the artistic process, making it accessible and portable. This choice reflects a shift towards capturing everyday life, mirroring the industrialized world's emphasis on speed and accessibility. Breitner's sketch reminds us that art can be found not only in the finished product but also in the process of creation, challenging the traditional hierarchy between 'high' art and the more immediate forms of expression.