Annotatie c. 1886s

George Hendrik Breitner created this annotation, whose date is unknown, but resides at the Rijksmuseum. It appears to be a page from a sketchbook or notebook. While it may seem simple, this annotation offers a glimpse into Breitner's working methods and the social context of artistic production. Made in the Netherlands, we can consider how the cultural emphasis on realism and observation might have influenced Breitner's approach. The presence of annotations suggests a process of reflection and refinement, typical within formal artistic training. Breitner may have made these to challenge conventional artistic practices, pushing the boundaries of what was considered art. As historians, we can use such materials to reconstruct the artist's creative process and understand how the work reflects its time. By examining archives, letters, and other historical resources, we can better grasp the meaning of art as something deeply embedded in its social and institutional context.