Edgar Degas (French, 1834–1917) was a pivotal figure in the Impressionist movement, though he preferred to be called a realist. Born in Paris to a cultured, moderately wealthy family, Degas studied classical art at the École des Beaux-Arts but soon found himself drawn to the fleeting moments of modern life. Renowned for his innovative depictions of ballet dancers, racehorses, laundresses, and theater scenes, Degas combined technical precision with a deep sensitivity to movement and mood.
He worked across media - oil, pastel, sculpture, and monotype - pushing each to its expressive limits. Degas had an unflinching eye: his work often peered into the private, unguarded rhythms of urban existence. Though increasingly isolated in his later years due to failing eyesight, his influence only grew, shaping the trajectory of modern art well into the 20th century.
