Studieblad met figuren, een liggende kat en voorwerpen 1884 - 1886

George Hendrik Breitner made this sketch of figures, a cat, and various objects using graphite on paper. It's a far cry from the heroic oil paintings you might associate with the late 19th century, but that's the point: Breitner's quick, exploratory marks give us a glimpse into the everyday labor of art making. You can almost feel his hand moving across the page, capturing fleeting impressions. Graphite, a readily available material, allows for a range of tonal values and textures. Notice how Breitner uses smudging and hatching to create depth and volume, particularly in the shadowy form of the cat. This kind of rapid sketching was crucial for artists developing their ideas and honing their skills, a testament to the hours of practice that underpin artistic mastery. Ultimately, it's a reminder that even the grandest artworks begin with simple materials and the artist's commitment to the act of making.