Aangemeerde schepen 1883 - 1885

George Hendrik Breitner sketched 'Aangemeerde schepen' or 'Moored Ships'. Breitner worked during a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization in the Netherlands. He was known for capturing the dynamism of city life, and the working class. Here, the linear sketch evokes the industrial revolution, a pivotal time of social and economic change. The industrial revolution had a profound impact on gender roles, as it led to new opportunities for women in the workforce, it also caused significant social disruption and inequality. Breitner sought to break from traditional artistic conventions through his own engagement with urban life. He was interested in conveying the energy of modern life. Here, the simple composition holds an honest reflection of the socio-economic landscape and the emergence of modernity.