Paard, van achteren gezien Possibly 1883 - 1886

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch of a horse from behind using graphite on paper. Here, the artist is working in the tradition of observational drawing, capturing a fleeting moment with a humble material, graphite, a readily available and relatively inexpensive medium. Notice the thin, light lines. Graphite allows for a range of tones and textures, from the faintest suggestion to a dark, bold mark, making it ideal for quick studies and capturing subtle details. The visible, unfinished quality emphasizes the work involved in the artistic process, highlighting the artist's hand and the act of creation. This immediate quality is also reflected in the inclusion of notes and calculations next to the drawing. By focusing on the everyday, Breitner elevates the ordinary, revealing the beauty in simple subjects. The work’s value resides not just in the final image, but in the process of its making. It’s a testament to the skill and labor involved in translating the world around us into art.