Annotaties 1893

George Hendrik Breitner's "Annotations" gives us a glimpse into the artist's world through his personal notes, revealing the everyday life of the late 19th century. Breitner, living in a time of rapid urbanization and industrial change in the Netherlands, captures the essence of a society in transition through his diary entries. The diary pages reflect Breitner’s observations and appointments, perhaps sketching sessions or social engagements in Amsterdam. Breitner moved to Amsterdam in 1886, driven by an interest in capturing urban life and a fascination with portraying all social classes, especially the working class. Breitner, known for his involvement with the Amsterdam Impressionism movement, sought to capture fleeting moments and the gritty reality of urban life. The notations and annotations, while seemingly simple, speak to the artist's desire to document the world around him with immediacy and authenticity. They underscore how deeply Breitner engaged with his surroundings and the people he encountered. As we explore this page, consider how Breitner used his art as a way to connect with and reflect the society in which he lived, finding beauty and meaning in the everyday experiences of the human condition.