Strijdende soldaten, te voet 1873

George Hendrik Breitner created this sketch of fighting soldiers with pencil on paper. Breitner was deeply invested in depicting the realities of everyday life in the Netherlands. Living through a period marked by significant social and political change, including the rise of industrialization and urbanization, Breitner often focused on the lives of ordinary people. His work provides insight into the experiences of different social classes amidst a rapidly changing society. Breitner, known for his emotional connection to his subjects, captures not just the physical aspects of conflict, but the psychological and emotional toll it takes on soldiers. The sketch is not just a representation of war but an invitation to reflect on its impact on individual lives. Breitner's approach serves as a reminder of the importance of art in documenting and interpreting the complexities of the human condition.