A poignant graphite sketch by Aat Breur-Hibma depicting a woman carrying her few remaining possessions, reflecting the hardships of the war years.

This graphite sketch by Dutch artist Aat Breur-Hibma captures a figure in a state of displacement. The title, Vrouw met al haar bezittingen, translates to Woman with all her possessions, a subject that reflects the precarious conditions experienced by many during the Second World War. The figure is depicted with a headscarf and a heavy coat, carrying a bag and a small object, likely a cooking pot or bowl, which suggests a life reduced to what can be carried by hand.

Breur-Hibma employs a restrained, economical line to define the form. The drawing is not concerned with elaborate detail or decorative flourishes. Instead, the focus remains on the posture of the woman, whose slight slump and downward gaze convey a sense of weariness. The paper itself shows signs of age and wear, particularly along the left edge, which adds to the historical gravity of the piece. The background is left largely empty, ensuring that the viewer remains focused on the isolation of the subject.

As an artist who was active during the occupation of the Netherlands, Breur-Hibma often documented the human cost of the conflict. Her work avoids sentimentality, opting for a direct and observational approach. This sketch functions as a quiet record of a moment in time, capturing the physical reality of a displaced person. The simplicity of the medium, graphite on paper, aligns with the urgency of the subject matter. It is a work that invites reflection on the nature of home and the fragility of personal belongings in times of crisis. The composition is balanced, with the figure positioned centrally, allowing the viewer to engage with the subject's expression and the weight of the items she carries.