Studieblad met honden, mannenhoofden en achterlijven van paarden Possibly 1881 - 1883

This page of sketches, by George Hendrik Breitner, was made with graphite pencil on paper. It shows a selection of studies of dogs, men, and the rear of horses; a fleeting glimpse into Breitner's method, with everyday life as his subject. The immediacy of the graphite on paper is evident in the varying line weights; from the darkest marks, which confidently define key features of the subject matter, to the lightest of strokes which suggest form. The type of paper used for these sketches is also important. Notice the texture, which is likely a laid paper, meaning it has a pattern of parallel lines impressed into it. This texture would have subtly influenced the application of the graphite, creating a slightly uneven distribution of tone and texture. This choice of material elevates a relatively mundane activity by adding a layer of complexity to the final composition. Ultimately, the materiality of 'Studieblad met honden, mannenhoofden en achterlijven van paarden' goes beyond the practicalities of creating the study, adding to its depth and providing an opportunity to consider the artist's wider creative practice.