Gezicht in Amsterdam, mogelijk het Oosterpark 1887 - 1891

This graphite drawing, possibly of the Oosterpark in Amsterdam, was created by George Hendrik Breitner, who lived from 1857 to 1923. Breitner was known for his depictions of Amsterdam and his association with the Amsterdam Impressionism movement. Breitner was interested in capturing everyday life, often focusing on working-class subjects and urban scenes. During his time, the art world in the Netherlands was undergoing significant changes, and Breitner’s work reflected a shift towards realism and a focus on contemporary life rather than traditional historical or mythological subjects. This sketch provides a glimpse into Breitner's process and the social context of his art. It may have been a preliminary study for a larger work. To fully appreciate the context of Breitner's art, one might consult exhibition catalogs from the Rijksmuseum, reviews of his shows in period newspapers, and other historical materials. Art is, after all, a product of its time, and its meaning is always contingent on social and institutional contexts.