Zittende soldaat 1873

This sketch of a seated soldier was made with a graphite pencil by George Hendrik Breitner, likely around the turn of the 20th century in the Netherlands. Breitner was known for his gritty depictions of urban life in Amsterdam, capturing the everyday experiences of ordinary people. In this image, a soldier sits in a chair, his rifle propped up beside him, and Breitner's choice of subject challenges the traditional, idealized representations of military figures common at the time. Instead, he presents us with a more human, vulnerable portrayal of a man in uniform. Breitner’s work often reflected the social and political realities of his time, questioning established social norms and institutions. Art historians can examine archival sources to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context in which this drawing was created. In doing so, we can better understand the role of art as a reflection of society.