Man in een stad 1881 - 1883

Here we see a pencil drawing, “Man in een stad”, by George Hendrik Breitner. Breitner lived through a time of great change and social upheaval, and he was known for capturing the energy and dynamism of the modern city. This sketch offers a glimpse into the artist’s world and the social dynamics of the time. The man in the bowler hat, likely a member of the bourgeoisie, appears detached, observing the city from a distance. There’s a sense of anonymity and isolation that speaks to the alienation of modern urban life. The rough and unfinished quality of the sketch conveys an immediacy that allows us to connect with the artist’s perspective. Breitner's work often challenged traditional representations, offering alternative narratives that reflected the realities of everyday life. This sketch, with its understated portrayal of a man in the city, invites us to reflect on the complexities of identity, class, and social change in a rapidly evolving world.