Gebouwen Possibly 1882 - 1886

This evocative drawing, "Gebouwen" or "Buildings", was created by George Hendrik Breitner, capturing an architectural scene. Breitner, living through the transformative late 19th and early 20th centuries, was deeply influenced by the rapid urbanization and social shifts of his time. Breitner's impressionistic style reflects a stark realism that often highlighted the working class and marginalized communities within the urban landscape. He was known for saying he wanted to capture "the grey, everyday life" of the city. In “Buildings”, the use of stark lines and contrasting shades isn't just about architectural accuracy, but also conveys a sense of the weight and density of urban development. Consider how Breitner's sketch invites us to reflect on how urban development shapes identity and experience. The choice of perspective makes us think about the way buildings affect how people live, work, and interact with each other.