Grazende paarden 1881 - 1883

Editor: Breitner’s "Grazende paarden," dating from the early 1880s, a pencil and graphite drawing currently residing here at the Rijksmuseum, is just, well, it feels like a fleeting moment captured. Almost like a quick sketch from a larger scene. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I am struck by the composition, primarily the artist’s use of line. Notice how the dense hatching gives volume and depth, while simultaneously flattening the picture plane. It’s almost a paradox, isn’t it? The forms are both there and not there. The interplay of positive and negative space also merits consideration. What, to you, is the dominant form? Editor: I think the large mass in the center, that represents the bulk of the horse, dominates the picture plane by virtue of the high contrast of those shadows. But its head seems vaguely drawn compared to the body; why is that? Curator: Indeed. Consider then how the relative definition dictates the reading of form and perspective. What does the stark contrast of textures and shapes imply about what is essential to render in the work versus its fleeting depiction? Editor: That makes perfect sense! Focusing on form through the use of contrasts within a singular artistic moment allows for this particular snapshot to appear to have more texture overall. Curator: Precisely. And isn't it remarkable how the artist employs such limited means – solely graphite – to achieve this complexity of form and texture? The image achieves incredible texture and a strong composition using only contrasts and outlines! Editor: Absolutely, looking closer, it’s impressive how much information Breitner conveys with so little detail. I'll certainly never look at pencil sketches in the same way!