Figuurstudies 1881 - 1883

George Hendrik Breitner created this sketch, titled "Figuurstudies," using graphite on paper. The profile view of the man suggests themes of introspection and contemplation, resonating with historical depictions of philosophers and thinkers. This stance, where the subject is turned away from the viewer, is reminiscent of classical portraiture, especially those of Roman emperors, who often symbolized wisdom and authority through their profiles. The act of turning away, or "volte faccia," appears throughout art history, each time carrying the weight of the past. In Renaissance paintings, this gesture might indicate turning from worldly concerns toward divine contemplation, while in Romantic art, it could signify the individual's alienation from society. Breitner’s sketch, in its raw, unfinished state, invites us to consider the continuous interplay between individual identity and broader cultural narratives. This turning of the face is not merely a physical act but a potent symbol that engages our collective memory.