Paarden en een kar 1883 - 1885

George Hendrik Breitner made this pencil drawing of horses and a cart. Breitner was known for his depictions of working-class life in Amsterdam at the turn of the 20th century. This sketch offers a glimpse into the urban environment of the Netherlands during a period of rapid industrialization and social change. The horse-drawn cart would have been a common sight, essential for transporting goods and materials within the city, but were soon to be replaced by more modern modes of transport. Breitner's interest in capturing these everyday scenes reflects a broader artistic movement that sought to portray the realities of modern life. By focusing on the working class and the urban landscape, artists like Breitner challenged the traditional focus on historical or mythological subjects. To fully appreciate such an image, we can consult archives, period newspapers, and social histories to discover more about the conditions of labour and how these were represented at the time.