Gezicht op het Leidseplein te Amsterdam c. 1873 - 1886

George Hendrik Breitner rendered this pencil drawing of Leidseplein in Amsterdam with graphite on paper. These are traditional, readily available materials. The paper is thin, and the graphite applied with a light touch, giving a sense of immediacy. Breitner was interested in capturing the everyday life of the city, and his choice of materials reflects that. Pencil allows for quick, on-the-spot sketching, perfectly suited to documenting fleeting moments. The sketch shows the artist’s engagement with the modern world. The drawing's social significance lies in its depiction of a bustling urban scene. Breitner’s focus on ordinary life challenges traditional artistic subjects, and the sketch reflects the shift towards realism in art. The drawing is a product of its time, capturing the energy of a city undergoing rapid change. It reminds us that art is not just about grand subjects but also about the everyday experiences of people.