Tonnen of manden 1881 - 1883

"Tonnen of manden" (1881-1883) is a charcoal sketch by Dutch artist George Hendrik Breitner, now housed in the Rijksmuseum. The drawing is a study of form and composition, with loose, gestural lines conveying the artist's quick observation of his subject. This abstract, impressionistic approach to form and light is characteristic of Breitner's work and his penchant for capturing the atmosphere and movement of his subjects, which were often scenes of daily life in Amsterdam. This sketch may have been a preliminary study for a larger work.