Landschap met boerderijen c. 1883 - 1885

George Hendrik Breitner made this drawing of farmhouses with pencil on paper sometime between 1880 and 1923. This sketch gives us a glimpse into the Dutch countryside through the eyes of an artist deeply engaged with the social realities of his time. Breitner was known for his commitment to depicting everyday life, often focusing on the working class and urban scenes. Though this drawing is of the countryside, it shares that same focus on everyday life. The Netherlands during Breitner's era was undergoing significant social and economic changes. Rapid industrialization led to urbanization and shifting class structures. Artists like Breitner responded by turning their attention to ordinary people and places. The Rijksmuseum holds collections of letters and other historical documents from the time that can help contextualize this drawing. By studying the social conditions that shaped Breitner's artistic production, we gain a deeper appreciation for the public role of art and its power to reflect and challenge existing social norms.