Studieblad met huzaar, vrouw, paard en vogel c. 1885 - 1887

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch, titled "Studieblad met huzaar, vrouw, paard en vogel" using etching. Breitner lived through a time of rapid social change in the Netherlands, and was known for his depictions of working-class life and urban scenes. This sketch gives a glimpse into the artist's process. It reflects the identities and social dynamics of the time through its figures: a hussar, a woman, a horse, and a bird. Breitner’s work often captured the feeling of fleeting moments. His urban scenes, while appearing objective, often evoke a sense of melancholy and isolation. In his paintings, he once stated, "I see beauty in the streets... I am not out to paint pretty women or such like stuff. I want to paint what I see and what touches me." This sketch, like much of his oeuvre, offers a personal perspective on everyday life, inviting us to reflect on the diverse experiences of people within a changing society. It is up to us to complete the story.