Gezicht op het Damrak te Amsterdam met een paard 1907

This sketch of the Damrak in Amsterdam, featuring a horse, was made by George Hendrik Breitner using graphite on paper. Graphite, of course, is pure carbon, a material that comes from deep within the earth and is mined like any other mineral. Breitner’s use of this material is a key element here. The soft, malleable nature of graphite allows for quick, expressive lines, perfectly suited to capturing a fleeting moment in the bustling city. See how the varying pressure of the pencil creates depth and texture, bringing the scene to life with minimal detail. It's a perfect medium for the immediacy he needed. The choice of graphite also speaks to Breitner’s interest in portraying everyday life and the working class. Far from the rarefied world of oil paint, the humble pencil was accessible and practical, aligning with his commitment to capturing the gritty reality of Amsterdam’s streets. By elevating this simple material and process, Breitner challenges traditional distinctions between high art and the art of everyday life.