Annotaties 1898 - 1902

George Hendrik Breitner created this page of annotations, now held at the Rijksmuseum, with pencil on paper. Breitner was a Dutch painter and photographer known for his depictions of urban life in Amsterdam during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These annotations provide insight into Breitner’s creative process, revealing a glimpse into the mind of an artist grappling with the complexities of representing modern life. The loose, gestural quality of the marks speaks to the transient nature of urban experience, capturing the fleeting moments and impressions that define city living. Breitner’s focus on the everyday lives of ordinary people challenges traditional notions of artistic subject matter. By turning his attention to the working class and marginalized communities, he elevates their stories and experiences to the realm of art, inviting viewers to reconsider their perceptions of society. The annotations serve as a reminder of the importance of documenting and preserving diverse perspectives within the historical record.