Edgar Degas

Brief Introduction of Edgar Degas

Edgar Degas (1834-1917), the renowned French artist celebrated for his proficiency in oil painting, sculpture, and drawing, was the eldest son born into a moderately affluent family with ties to the banking sector. After completing his secondary education, Degas initially sought to become a copyist at the Louvre Museum. However, his father harbored different aspirations, envisioning a path in law for his son. Thus, in line with his father's expectations, Degas enrolled at the University of Paris, though his commitment to his studies was rather lackluster. It was during his formative years that Edgar Degas embarked on his artistic journey. At the tender age of 18, he established a studio within his home and began meticulously replicating oil paintings from the Louvre's vast collection. Degas continued his work as a copyist well into middle age, marking a significant chapter in his artistic development. He made his inaugural appearance at the Salon in 1865, marking his debut as an exhibiting artist.

Painting Style

Edgar Degas is perhaps most prominently associated with his portrayal of the captivating world of dance. A substantial portion of his oeuvre is dedicated to this captivating subject. Although considered one of the pioneering figures of Impressionism, Degas himself resisted this classification, preferring to be recognized as a realist. His mastery of the art form is exemplified by his exceptional ability to capture movement, a skill vividly evident in his depictions of dancers, racetracks, and female nudes. Degas' portrait paintings stand out for their profound psychological depth and their poignant representation of human solitude.

The Most Famous Oil Paintings

Dancers Bending Down, also known as The Ballerinas; Swaying Dancer (Dancer in Green); Dance Class at the Opera; At the Stables, Horse and Dog; After the Bath

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