Architectuurstudies 1880 - 1882

George Hendrik Breitner made these architectural studies with a pencil on paper. Breitner lived during a time of great social and urban change in the Netherlands, particularly in Amsterdam. These sketches could represent more than just architectural forms; they mirror the transformation of Amsterdam. Breitner was known for capturing the energy of the streets, the working class, and the rapid modernization of the city. These drawings may have been made during the same period that Breitner was part of the Amsterdam Impressionism movement, which focused on depicting everyday life and urban scenes with a sense of realism and immediacy. As you look at the images, consider how Breitner’s quick and unassuming sketches capture the transformation of a society grappling with progress and its impact on the human experience.