Vrouw onder een poort aan Klein Heiligland te Haarlem c. 1903

George Hendrik Breitner sketched "Woman under a gateway in Klein Heiligland in Haarlem" in 1891 using graphite on paper. Breitner was known for capturing the energy of urban life, often focusing on the working class and marginalized communities. This sketch offers a glimpse into the daily life of a woman navigating the city streets. The gate might symbolize both a physical and social barrier. We can imagine her position in society, perhaps facing the limitations and expectations placed on women during this period. Breitner’s choice to depict her under a gateway, suggests a moment of transition, or perhaps even a quiet act of resistance. While the sketch is simple, it invites us to consider the woman's story, her struggles, and her resilience within the context of late 19th-century Haarlem. It's a poignant reflection on the everyday experiences of women in a rapidly changing world.