Figuren in een straat met bomen 1886 - 1898

George Hendrik Breitner made this drawing of figures in a street with trees with graphite on paper. The rapid strokes of graphite reveal how Breitner quickly captured his observations. Notice the thinness of the lines, and the varying pressure he applied. These choices influence the overall mood. It has a sense of immediacy, as if he wanted to capture a fleeting moment. The work's social significance is tied to Breitner's interest in portraying urban life. During his time, rapid industrialization was changing cities. Capturing the essence of life in the streets, from the figures to the trees, his sketch shows the effects of urbanization on people's lives. Considering the materials and methods used here helps us understand how the artist felt about the modern world. It also shows the connection between artistic expression and wider social and political issues.