Studie 1886 - 1923

This graphite sketch on paper was made by George Hendrik Breitner, and is currently held in the Rijksmuseum. The sketch's material – graphite on paper – speaks to its function as a study. The rough paper stock, with its visible texture, is a ground for Breitner's quick, exploratory lines. Graphite, a readily available and inexpensive material, allows for layering and easy correction. Note the artist's handwritten notes and calculations interspersed with the sketch, adding to the sense of immediacy and process. The gestural quality of the graphite lines captures movement, reflecting the fast pace of modern urban life. Breitner wasn't striving for a polished finish, but rather a fleeting impression. By embracing humble materials and emphasizing process, Breitner challenges traditional hierarchies within the art world, elevating the sketch to a form of artistic expression. This reminds us that the value of art often lies not just in the final product, but also in the artist's working method.