Studie Possibly 1883 - 1885

This 'Studie' sketch by George Hendrik Breitner, now at the Rijksmuseum, presents us with a world of raw and emergent forms. The symbol of the cross pierces through the composition like a rudimentary compass guiding us through the fog of the artist’s first impressions. Consider how the cross, a symbol heavy with religious and cultural significance, reappears in different contexts. Think of its ancient origins as a symbol of the cosmos, its reinvention as a Christian emblem of sacrifice, and its continued presence in secular life, from national flags to mathematical equations. The cross, a constant in human expression, has transformed across time. Breitner’s use of the cross in this modern setting evokes a certain psychological tension. It touches upon our collective memory, stirring feelings of faith, suffering, and perhaps, a subconscious yearning for spiritual guidance amidst the chaos of modern life. In this non-linear, cyclical progression, the symbol resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts.