Drie figuren 1880 - 1882

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch, titled "Three Figures," sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. It’s a quick study, probably done in preparation for a larger painting, but it gives us a glimpse into the artist's world and the social context in which he worked. Breitner was known for his depictions of everyday life in Amsterdam, often focusing on the working class. In this sketch, we see three figures, possibly in a domestic setting. The loose lines and unfinished quality suggest a sense of immediacy, as if Breitner were capturing a fleeting moment. What did it mean to represent working-class people at this time? How might this image relate to the broader social and political movements of the era? As historians, we can look at photographs, newspapers, and other documents from the period to learn more about the lives of ordinary people in Amsterdam. By understanding the social and institutional context in which Breitner created this sketch, we can gain a deeper appreciation for its meaning and significance.