Paard 1910

George Hendrik Breitner made this drawing of a horse using graphite on paper, giving us an intimate glimpse into his artistic process. The artist’s choice of graphite lends itself to quick, spontaneous sketching, capturing the essence of the subject with minimal fuss. The paper, with its slightly textured surface, absorbs the graphite, creating a soft, velvety effect that softens the horse’s features. The visible, energetic lines reflect the artist’s hand movements, recording the fleeting moments of observation. You can almost imagine Breitner quickly sketching the horse, focusing on capturing its form and posture with swift strokes. It is through the work's emphasis on materials, making, and context, that challenges the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, allowing us to appreciate the skill and vision behind the art.