Ruiter en een soldaat c. 1889 - 1904

This graphite sketch of a rider and a soldier was created by George Hendrik Breitner, a Dutch artist who lived from 1857 to 1923. Breitner was known for his depictions of urban life in Amsterdam, and his work provides a valuable insight into the social and cultural context of the Netherlands during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This sketch gives us a glimpse into the military presence in Dutch society at the time, and how this might have impacted on civilian life. In looking closely at the artist’s visual language – the rough marks and the composition – one can almost sense a tension between the figures. To understand the meaning of this work fully, the historian would want to research the military history of the Netherlands, and how the armed forces were perceived by the public at the time. Military records, newspaper archives, and personal accounts could all help to give context. By investigating such sources, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the relationship between art and society in the past.