Studieblad, mogelijk met een schouw c. 1883 - 1885

This is a sketch by George Hendrik Breitner, made with graphite on paper. Here, the roughness of the graphite is really important. Breitner is feeling his way into an image, using a cheap, readily available material. You can see the texture of the paper coming through, giving the drawing a sense of immediacy. The speed of the medium is also key. Graphite allows for quick marks, perfect for capturing fleeting impressions of light and form. Breitner was known for his interest in urban life, and the speed of graphite suits the pace of the modern city, as does the ready availability of paper for sketches of all sorts. Ultimately, this drawing reminds us that even the simplest materials can be used to create powerful and evocative works of art, connecting creative practice to the everyday.