Paarden c. 1889 - 1904

George Hendrik Breitner made this graphite drawing titled "Paarden" which translates to Horses, sometime between 1880 and 1923, and it now resides in the Rijksmuseum. At first glance, the work appears as a series of chaotic scribbles, yet closer inspection reveals a structural organization. The composition relies on a vertical axis, with the sketched forms stacked one above another. This arrangement, combined with the stark contrast of dark graphite on the light page, creates a sense of depth and movement. The lines themselves are fragmented and kinetic, suggesting rather than defining the forms of horses. Breitner's mark-making conveys a sense of immediacy, capturing a fleeting impression. The drawing pushes against traditional representation, emphasizing process and perception. The visible pentimenti and erasures highlight the artist's thought process. This drawing challenges fixed ideas about space, perception and representation in art. It invites us to reconsider how we perceive reality and the role of art in shaping our understanding.