Soldaat en een compositiestudie met paarden 1880 - 1882

George Hendrik Breitner sketched this work, "Soldier and a Composition Study with Horses", using graphite. Breitner, living from 1857 to 1923, was a Dutch painter known for his realistic depictions of urban life, and was an important figure in the Amsterdam Impressionism movement. Breitner was drafted into military service, an experience that deeply impacted his artistic vision. His later works often portrayed soldiers and working-class individuals, reflecting his empathy for those in the margins of society. This sketch offers a glimpse into Breitner’s complex relationship with military life, showing a soldier wielding a sword alongside studies of horses. Breitner's work provides insight into the gendered and class dynamics of the late 19th century. Military service was a predominantly male domain, and Breitner's focus on soldiers reflects the era’s emphasis on masculinity and national identity. His dedication to capturing ordinary moments and people challenges traditional heroic narratives in art. It serves as a reminder of the diverse experiences and identities that shape our understanding of history.