1.3 Edgar Degas
5 min read•august 19, 2024
Edgar Degas, a key figure in , pushed artistic boundaries with his unique style. He focused on capturing modern life, especially dancers and Parisian scenes, using unconventional perspectives and mixed media techniques.
Degas' work bridged traditional and modern art, influencing future generations. His innovative approach to composition, color, and subject matter laid the groundwork for and other avant-garde movements, cementing his legacy in art history.
Early life and artistic training
- Born in Paris in 1834 to a wealthy banking family, Degas received a classical education and showed an early talent for drawing
- Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts under academic painter Louis Lamothe, learning traditional techniques such as copying Old Master paintings
- Traveled to Italy in 1856 where he was exposed to Renaissance art and began developing his own style, focusing on contemporary subjects rather than historical or mythological scenes
Degas' role in Impressionism
Relationship with other Impressionists
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- Participated in seven of the eight between 1874 and 1886, but maintained a somewhat detached relationship with the group
- Shared an interest in capturing modern life and the effects of light with Impressionists like Monet and Renoir, but disagreed with their emphasis on plein air painting
- Developed close friendships with and Mary Cassatt, who were also associated with the Impressionist circle
Unique style vs traditional Impressionism
- Unlike many Impressionists who focused on landscapes and outdoor scenes, Degas preferred to work in a studio setting and concentrated on figurative subjects
- Employed a more precise, controlled brushwork compared to the loose, spontaneous style of Impressionism, often using sharp contours and bold colors
- Incorporated elements of Realism and Classicism into his work, creating a distinctive blend of traditional and modern techniques
Signature subjects and themes
Dancers and ballet scenes
- Fascinated by the world of ballet, Degas created over 1,500 works depicting dancers in various settings (rehearsals, performances, backstage)
- Captured the grace and athleticism of dancers through careful observation and sketching, often from unconventional angles or viewpoints
- Paintings like "" (1874) and "" (1878) showcase his mastery of the subject and ability to convey movement and emotion
Horse racing and jockeys
- Another recurring theme in Degas' work, reflecting his love of horses and interest in the fashionable pastime of horse racing
- Paintings such as "The Parade" (1866-68) and "Racehorses Before the Stands" (1866-68) depict the excitement and energy of the racetrack
- Focused on the jockeys, horses, and spectators rather than the actual race, capturing the social atmosphere and behind-the-scenes moments
Parisian life and leisure
- Chronicled the and leisure activities of the Parisian bourgeoisie, particularly women
- Scenes of cafés, theaters, and public spaces like "Absinthe Drinker" (1875-76) and "The Millinery Shop" (1885) offer glimpses into the social fabric of 19th-century Paris
- Often depicted women engaged in intimate, private moments such as bathing or dressing, challenging traditional notions of female representation in art
Artistic techniques and innovations
Experimentation with perspective
- Known for his unconventional and daring use of perspective, often employing high or low vantage points to create a sense of immediacy and intimacy
- Works like "The Orchestra of the Opera" (1870) and "Miss La La at the Cirque Fernando" (1879) showcase his innovative approach to composition and space
- Use of cropping and asymmetry to create dynamic, snapshot-like images that capture fleeting moments and emotions
Use of pastels and mixed media
- Pioneered the use of pastels as a primary medium, exploiting their versatility and ability to create rich, vibrant colors and textures
- Works such as "Woman Combing Her Hair" (1885-1886) and "Dancers in Blue" (1890) demonstrate his mastery of the medium and its potential for expressive effects
- Experimented with combining different media (oil, pastel, gouache, metallic pigments) to create unique surface qualities and visual interest
Influence of photography
- Fascinated by the emerging technology of photography and its potential to capture movement and freeze time
- Incorporated photographic elements into his work, such as unusual angles, cropping, and blurring to create a sense of spontaneity and immediacy
- Collected and studied photographs, using them as reference material for his paintings and sculptures
Notable works and exhibitions
Iconic ballet dancer paintings
- "The Class" (1874) - A large-scale painting depicting a group of young dancers rehearsing under the watchful eye of their instructor, showcasing Degas' skill in capturing the grace and discipline of ballet
- "The Little Fourteen-Year-Old Dancer" (1881) - A controversial sculpture of a young ballet dancer, cast in bronze and dressed in real clothing, that challenged traditional notions of sculpture and representation
Sculpture and wax figurines
- In his later years, Degas turned increasingly to sculpture as a means of exploring form and movement in three dimensions
- Created a series of wax figurines depicting dancers, horses, and bathers, which were cast in bronze after his death
- Works like "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen" (1881) and "The Tub" (1886) showcase his innovative approach to sculpture and his ability to capture the essence of his subjects
Controversial reception and legacy
- Degas' work often provoked strong reactions from critics and the public due to his unconventional subject matter and techniques
- Some viewed his depictions of women, particularly in private moments, as voyeuristic or even misogynistic, while others praised his honesty and psychological insight
- Despite the mixed reception, Degas' innovations and influence on modern art have secured his place as one of the most important artists of the 19th century
Later years and failing eyesight
Shift towards sculpture
- As his eyesight began to deteriorate in the 1880s due to a condition called retinopathy, Degas turned increasingly to sculpture as a means of continuing his artistic practice
- Created a series of wax figurines depicting dancers, horses, and bathers, which allowed him to explore form and movement through touch rather than sight
- Many of these sculptures were cast in bronze after his death, preserving his legacy and revealing a lesser-known aspect of his artistic output
Reclusive lifestyle and eccentricities
- Became increasingly reclusive in his later years, rarely leaving his studio and avoiding social interactions
- Known for his eccentric behavior and sometimes difficult personality, which strained his relationships with friends and family
- Continued to work and experiment with new techniques and subjects until his death in 1917, leaving behind a vast body of work that spans multiple media and genres
Influence on modern art
Impact on Post-Impressionism
- Degas' innovative approach to composition, perspective, and subject matter had a significant impact on the development of Post-Impressionism
- Artists like Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh were inspired by his use of bold colors, flattened forms, and unconventional viewpoints
- His focus on capturing the essence of modern life and his willingness to challenge traditional artistic conventions paved the way for future avant-garde movements
Inspiration for future generations
- Degas' influence can be seen in the work of numerous 20th-century artists, from the Cubists to the Expressionists and beyond
- His emphasis on the human figure and his ability to convey emotion and movement through line and color have inspired generations of figurative artists
- His innovative use of mixed media and his experimentation with sculpture have opened up new possibilities for artistic expression and continue to influence contemporary art practices today
Key Terms to Review (20)
Ballet: Ballet is a highly technical form of dance that originated during the Italian Renaissance and evolved into a concert dance form in France and Russia. It is characterized by its graceful movements, precision, and structured techniques, often telling a story or expressing emotions through elaborate choreography. This art form has played a significant role in shaping the visual aesthetics of many artists, particularly in the works of Edgar Degas.
Café scenes: Café scenes refer to artistic representations that capture the lively and often informal atmosphere of cafés, frequently depicting social interactions among patrons. These scenes reflect the cultural and social dynamics of urban life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, serving as a backdrop for exploring themes of modernity, leisure, and community. They provide insight into the changing lifestyles and interactions within society, often featuring a variety of characters engaged in conversation, relaxation, or contemplation.
Capturing movement: Capturing movement refers to the artistic practice of depicting the sensation of motion within a still image. This technique aims to convey the dynamic quality of a subject's action, evoking a sense of life and energy that transcends static representation. In this context, it often involves innovative approaches to composition, perspective, and brushwork, allowing viewers to feel the rhythm and flow of movement within the artwork.
Chiaroscuro: Chiaroscuro is an artistic technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create the illusion of volume and three-dimensionality in two-dimensional works. This technique enhances the dramatic effect of the artwork, highlighting certain elements while casting others in shadow. It is crucial in rendering depth and form, making subjects appear more lifelike and dynamic.
Dance: Dance is a form of artistic expression that combines movement, rhythm, and music to convey emotions, tell stories, or celebrate cultural traditions. In the context of visual arts, dance serves as a significant theme that influences various artists, particularly in how they capture movement and grace in their works. The relationship between dance and visual arts allows for an exploration of the human figure in motion, showcasing the beauty and complexity of choreography and performance.
Édouard Manet: Édouard Manet was a French painter pivotal in the transition from Realism to Impressionism, known for his innovative compositions and modern subject matter. His works often challenged traditional artistic conventions and social norms, making him a central figure in the Avant-garde movements of the 19th century, which were marked by a break from historical traditions in art.
Everyday life: Everyday life refers to the routine experiences and activities that make up an individual's daily existence. In the context of art, it captures the mundane aspects of daily activities, interactions, and environments that often go unnoticed but reflect cultural and societal values. This focus on everyday life often highlights the beauty and significance of ordinary moments, making them worthy subjects for artistic expression.
Impressionism: Impressionism is an art movement that originated in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on capturing light and its changing qualities, often depicting everyday scenes and landscapes. This style emphasizes spontaneity and the artist's perception of a moment, often using vibrant colors and loose brushwork to convey an impression rather than detailed realism.
Impressionist Exhibitions: The Impressionist Exhibitions were a series of independent art exhibitions that began in the 1870s, showcasing works of the Impressionist movement. These exhibitions were significant because they provided a platform for artists who were often rejected by the official Salon, allowing them to present their innovative approaches to painting and challenge traditional artistic norms. They were pivotal in establishing the Impressionist movement's reputation and creating an alternative space for modern art.
Japanese Art: Japanese art encompasses a diverse range of artistic expressions that have evolved over centuries, reflecting the unique culture, history, and aesthetics of Japan. This art form includes traditional practices such as calligraphy, painting, and pottery, as well as modern influences that have shaped contemporary styles. The distinct qualities of Japanese art can be seen in the works of various artists, highlighting their connections to the broader trends in global art movements.
Nude studies: Nude studies refer to the artistic practice of depicting the human body in its natural form, often without clothing. This form of art aims to explore anatomy, movement, and the emotional expression of the human figure. Through nude studies, artists develop their skills in capturing realism and understanding the complexities of human form and gesture.
Paris in the 19th Century: Paris in the 19th century was a vibrant cultural and artistic hub, characterized by rapid industrialization, political upheaval, and the emergence of new artistic movements. The city attracted artists, writers, and intellectuals, who contributed to the flourishing of avant-garde art, including Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. This period was marked by significant societal changes that influenced the way art was created and perceived.
Pastel drawing: Pastel drawing is an artistic technique that uses soft, colored sticks made from powdered pigments and a binder to create vibrant and rich artworks. The medium allows for blending and layering, resulting in a unique texture and color depth that can resemble both drawing and painting. Pastels are often used for their versatility, providing artists the ability to achieve a wide range of effects with both fine detail and broad strokes.
Post-Impressionism: Post-Impressionism refers to an art movement that emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction against the limitations of Impressionism. Artists associated with this movement sought to explore emotional depth, structure, and symbolic content in their work, moving beyond the mere depiction of light and color that characterized Impressionism.
Salon des refusés: The salon des refusés, or 'exhibition of rejects,' was an alternative art exhibition held in Paris in 1863 to showcase works that had been rejected from the official Salon. This event was significant as it highlighted the tension between traditional artistic conventions and the emerging modernist movements, providing a platform for artists to express their innovative styles. It is particularly noted for featuring works by prominent figures who would later become key players in the evolution of modern art, reflecting the shifting perceptions of beauty and artistic value.
The absinthe drinker: The absinthe drinker refers to a popular figure in late 19th-century art and literature, symbolizing the bohemian lifestyle and the impact of the controversial green alcoholic beverage, absinthe. This figure often embodies themes of decadence, artistic inspiration, and existential ennui, often depicted in works that capture the atmosphere of cafes and nightlife where absinthe was consumed, contributing to the mystique surrounding this drink and its influence on the avant-garde.
The Dance Class: The Dance Class is a renowned painting by Edgar Degas, completed in 1874, which depicts a ballet class led by a ballet instructor. This artwork captures the essence of the ballet experience, showcasing the grace and discipline of dancers while highlighting Degas's fascination with movement, light, and composition. The painting is significant as it represents the artist's innovative approach to capturing the human form in motion and his ability to convey intimate moments in everyday life.
The rise of modernity: The rise of modernity refers to a significant cultural, social, and economic shift that emerged in Europe during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a move towards industrialization, urbanization, and new ways of thinking. This period saw a transformation in artistic expressions and societal values, emphasizing individualism, progress, and a break from traditional norms. This shift was reflected in the works of artists who sought to capture the changing realities of modern life.
The Star: In the context of art, particularly in the works of Edgar Degas, 'the star' refers to the leading figure or principal dancer in a ballet performance. This term not only highlights the individual’s prominence but also emphasizes the dynamics of movement and composition within the artwork, showcasing the beauty and skill of ballet through Degas's innovative techniques and perspectives.
Theater: Theater is a collaborative art form that combines various elements, including performance, music, and visual arts, to tell stories and convey emotions in front of an audience. It involves the staging of narratives through live performances, often highlighting the human experience and societal issues. In relation to certain artistic movements, theater serves as a medium for expression and experimentation, reflecting the cultural dynamics of its time.