Landscape near Waalsdorp, with Soldiers on Maneuver c. 1880 - 1923

Curator: Here we have George Hendrik Breitner’s oil on panel painting, “Landscape near Waalsdorp, with Soldiers on Maneuver,” dating roughly from 1880 to 1923. It is held here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: Mmm, a somber walk through what looks like a perpetually grey afternoon. The figures feel blurred, almost spectral, moving along with an almost unsettling calm. Curator: Yes, notice how Breitner evokes the flat, open landscape with economical brushstrokes, almost shorthand. The soldiers become symbolic figures—anonymous representations of military presence. The sky is overcast. There is a pervasive dampness that contributes to the melancholy mood. The use of impressionistic brushwork lends an immediacy, but also a detachment. Editor: Detachment is the right word. Their purposeful stride feels almost automated. It's fascinating how the lack of distinct features makes them representative, standing in for a universal idea of soldiery. Makes me think of archetypes. Curator: Exactly. It's an intriguing interpretation. Soldiers and landscapes have always been tied to concepts of territory, nationhood, defense. This rendition, though, deviates somewhat, replacing notions of bravery with routine. The painting doesn’t focus on specific heroic acts, instead, their ordinary activity creates an imposing impact, heightened by muted color palette. The symbols themselves appear understated here, a technique reminiscent of the old masters of symbolism. Editor: Mmh. The colors, now that you point it out, reinforce that routine: the greens and browns feel organic, like camouflage blending them with their surroundings. The viewer may expect heroism, as you say, but it feels as though heroism is a far away fantasy. I do admire how he captures movement by using these imprecise figures as sort of smudges or shadows. Curator: Breitner certainly offers a powerful visual statement with its stark representation and emphasis on atmosphere and routine. A somewhat unsettling effect from the soldiers' purposeful walk, rendered without much individual emotion. It encourages a consideration of duty and authority and the personal element behind the universal action of war. Editor: Definitely gives one pause.