Pianospelende vrouw en een eend 1882

This drawing was made by George Hendrik Breitner using graphite on paper. The fleeting marks capture a woman playing piano with an inquisitive duck looming above. Looking closely, the material softness of graphite allows for the creation of light and shadow, giving the impression of movement. The drawing feels immediate, like a snapshot of a moment in time. Breitner was known for his interest in capturing everyday life, and here he seems to have quickly sketched his surroundings. The choice of graphite, a readily available and relatively inexpensive material, suggests a democratic approach to art making, one that emphasizes the importance of observation and skill over precious materials. Although the image is unfinished, the skill traditions involved represent fine art, demonstrating how the simplest of tools can be used to create compelling works.