Edgar Degas

Edgar Degas (1834–1917) was a French Impressionist master celebrated for his elegant depictions of ballet dancers, daily life, and movement. Though often associated with Impressionism, Degas preferred to call himself a realist, focusing on form, composition, and the subtleties of human gesture. His innovative use of pastels and dynamic viewpoints brought energy and intimacy to his work. Fascinated by motion, he frequently portrayed dancers, bathers, and horse riders in candid, unposed moments. Degas’s artistry blends precision with emotion, transforming ordinary scenes into timeless studies of grace and rhythm. His legacy continues to inspire generations of modern and contemporary artists.