Nieuwe Kerk te Amsterdam, gezien vanuit de Mozes en Aäronstraat 1907

George Hendrik Breitner sketched the Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam, likely around the turn of the century, using graphite pencil on paper. The apparent simplicity of this medium belies its significance. Pencil, though easily accessible, is a fundamental tool of both artists and artisans. Its capacity for precise line-work makes it ideal for architectural drawings, yet here, Breitner uses it expressively, capturing the monumentality of the church with an economy of strokes. The texture of the paper also plays a part, giving a tactile quality to the sketch. Consider, too, the social context: while the church represents established power, Breitner positions himself outside, sketching from the street. His choice of medium democratizes the image, making it accessible. Ultimately, this work reminds us that even the humblest of materials can convey profound artistic vision, blurring the lines between high art and everyday experience.