Paard en wagen c. 1886 - 1903

George Hendrik Breitner made this drawing of a horse and wagon using graphite on paper. Graphite, a form of carbon, is known for its soft, greasy feel, making it ideal for creating quick sketches. The artist's direct engagement with the subject is evident in the energetic lines and textures of the drawing. He skillfully captures the weight and form of the horse and wagon, while also conveying the sense of movement and vitality. You can almost see the jostle of daily life. In Breitner’s time, horses and wagons were essential to the Dutch economy. By using drawing, a readily accessible medium, Breitner democratizes this image, allowing the viewer to appreciate the beauty in everyday life, and to consider the labor and social context embedded in this common scene. This elevation of the mundane challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, highlighting the importance of materials, making, and context in understanding the full meaning of an artwork.