Gezicht in Amsterdam met wolkenlucht c. 1895 - 1898

George Hendrik Breitner made this drawing of Amsterdam with charcoal in the late 19th or early 20th century. Breitner belonged to a generation of artists who turned away from idealized depictions of the Dutch landscape. Instead, he focused on the everyday life of the city. This sketch captures a moment, a fleeting impression of Amsterdam's skyline under a dramatic sky. The loose strokes and unfinished quality suggest a sense of immediacy. It offers a glimpse into the artist’s working method, revealing how he captured the city's atmosphere and rapid changes. Breitner was associated with the Amsterdam Impressionism movement, and sought to portray the realities of modern urban life, from the bustling streets to the quiet moments of daily life. To fully understand Breitner's work, we can consult periodicals and exhibition reviews to find out how his art was received by his contemporaries. Through these resources we can better understand his contribution to Dutch art history.