Ploeg 1884 - 1886

This sketch, Ploeg, was made by George Hendrik Breitner in the Netherlands, although the exact date is unknown. It displays a figure with quick strokes of charcoal on paper. Breitner's work often captured the bustling life of Amsterdam, and he was known for his interest in the working class. This sketch is thought to depict a farmhand with a horse-drawn plough. At the time, the Netherlands was undergoing rapid industrialization and urbanization. Many artists felt a sense of tension between the traditional rural life and the modern city. Breitner often used photography as a reference for his paintings and sketches. This allowed him to capture a sense of realism and immediacy in his work. To understand Breitner's art, we often look at archival photographs and historical accounts of Amsterdam during his time. By considering the social and economic context in which he lived, we can gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and significance of his work. Ultimately, art is a reflection of the society that produces it.