George Hendrik Breitner (Rotterdam 1857-1923 Amsterdam)

The Rokin in Amsterdam is a recurring theme in Breitner's oeuvre. Following his move to Amsterdam in 1886, Breitner was often to be found roaming the city centre. Not only was the gallery Van Wisselingh & Co. situated in this area, also his artist's society 'Arti et Amicitiae' was located on the Rokin and is visible in the background of the present lot. It was painted at the height of his career as Breitner had already been honoured by a major retrospective exhibition at 'Arti et Amicitiae' in 1901, which confirmed his position as a leading artist of his time. In 1903 Breitner had moved from Amsterdam to Aerdenhout, inspired by his friend Marius Bauer (1876-1932) who had done the same. Despite this move, Breitner's fascination with Amsterdam's street life never diminished and he moved back to Amsterdam in 1906. This exceptional painting bears witness to Breitner's proclivity for city life, displaying the characteristic tension between impression and expression for which his work so highly appreciated.

The Nieuwezijdskapel, also known as the Heylighe Stee, is visible on the right of the composition. This chapel was built in 1345 to commemorate a miracle which occurred on this spot. Notwithstanding
many protests, the building was demolished in 1908, only four years after Breitner painted this composition.