Hunebed 1884 - 1886

"Hunebed" is a charcoal drawing by Dutch artist George Hendrik Breitner, created between 1884 and 1886. The work, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, depicts a close-up of a single hunebed, a prehistoric megalithic tomb common in the Netherlands. Breitner's sketch captures the rough, weathered texture of the ancient stone with a few simple strokes, emphasizing its enduring presence. His use of chiaroscuro, creating strong contrasts of light and shadow, adds depth and dimensionality to the composition. This work exemplifies Breitner's interest in capturing the essence of his surroundings, reflecting the artistic trends of the late 19th century.