Studie, mogelijk van een leunende figuur c. 1886 - 1923

This is George Hendrik Breitner's charcoal drawing, 'Studie, mogelijk van een leunende figuur,' currently held at the Rijksmuseum. Breitner was known for his raw depictions of urban life in Amsterdam during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This sketch, likely a preliminary study, offers a glimpse into Breitner's process and his interest in capturing fleeting moments of everyday life. The figure's posture suggests weariness, perhaps reflecting the socio-economic realities faced by many in the rapidly changing city. Breitner, often linked to the "Tachtigers" literary movement, aimed for an unvarnished portrayal of reality, similar to Émile Zola's naturalistic novels. Breitner’s emotional connection to his subjects is evident in his words: "I am not a painter for fun and pleasure... but I paint what I see and what touches me." He challenged conventional representations by focusing on the working class, and the marginalized. This drawing serves not only as an aesthetic exercise but also as a social commentary, inviting us to reflect on the lives and struggles of individuals within a specific historical context.