Studieblad, onder andere met een paard en gezichten 1880 - 1882

This study sheet, featuring a horse and faces, was created by George Hendrik Breitner, likely towards the end of the 19th century in the Netherlands. Breitner was a prominent figure in the Amsterdam Impressionism movement, known for his gritty depictions of urban life. This sketch offers a glimpse into his artistic process, revealing the preliminary studies that informed his larger works. The choice of subject matter, horses and faces, reflects the social fabric of the time, horses being essential for transport and labor, and faces representing the human element of the bustling city. The Rijksmuseum, where this work is housed, plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of Dutch art history. By preserving and exhibiting works like this, the museum not only celebrates artistic achievements but also frames them within a broader cultural narrative. To truly understand Breitner's work, one must delve into the archives, studying his letters, contemporary reviews, and the social history of Amsterdam. Only then can we appreciate the complex interplay between art, society, and the institutions that mediate our encounter with the past.