Brief aan Jan Veth 1874 - 1923

This letter to Jan Veth was written by George Hendrik Breitner, an artist who lived between 1857 and 1923. Breitner, who lived and worked in Amsterdam, was known for his paintings of the city, and for being an important figure in the Dutch Impressionist movement. Breitner, as a member of the Hague School, sought to capture the reality of everyday life. His unflinching focus on the working class and urban scenes challenged the prevailing romantic notions of art. In this letter, Breitner’s commitment to realism is evident, mirroring his artistic approach. The handwritten correspondence provides insight into Breitner’s thoughts and feelings, offering a personal dimension beyond his public persona as an artist. The letter allows us to connect emotionally with Breitner, and invites us to consider the relationship between art and life, and the ways in which personal experiences shape artistic vision. It demonstrates how Breitner developed alternative narratives through art.