Man, op de rug gezien c. 1886 - 1890

This sketch titled 'Man, op de rug gezien' was created by George Hendrik Breitner. Breitner lived during a time of rapid social and economic change in the Netherlands. He moved away from traditional academic painting towards a more realistic, immediate style. In this sketch, the facelessness of the figure renders him anonymous, a representation of the working class in the rapidly industrializing cities. Breitner was known for capturing the hustle and bustle of urban life. His work often focused on the experiences of ordinary people. This focus can be seen as a reflection of broader social concerns. The ambiguity of the man's expression invites the viewer to consider their own relationship to labor, class, and the human condition. The work serves as a stark reminder of the often-overlooked individuals whose labor shapes our world. It asks us to recognize the human stories embedded within the fabric of society.