Explore the Life and Art of Edgar Degas: A Master of Impressionism and Realism

Edgar Degas is one of the most renowned and influential French artists of the 19th century. Known for his innovative and evocative depictions of dancers, Degas' works have captivated viewers for over a century. This article delves into the lesser-known facts about the artist, his artistic journey, and the impact of his work on the artistic world.

1. Degas' Unforeseen Fame

Edgar Degas (1834-1917) is best known for his rich and dynamic paintings of ballerinas. Despite his initial intention of becoming a history painter, his talent for capturing the fleeting moments of dancers and everyday life turned him into one of the most celebrated artists of Impressionism, though he remained skeptical towards this label.

2. Degas and Impressionism: A Contested Title

Degas was a founding member of the Impressionist movement, yet he vehemently refused to accept the label. He self-identified as a realist, emphasizing the importance of capturing the essence of his subjects rather than capturing the fleeting and ephemeral moments typical of the Impressionist style. This dichotomy between his art and self-perception adds an intriguing layer to his artistic legacy.

3. Degas' Early Career Aspirations

At the beginning of his career, Degas aspired to be a history painter, a challenging and prestigious genre that often depicted scenes from history or mythology. This aspiration reveals Degas' deep interest in storytelling and narrative, which inevitably found expression in his later works through the depiction of everyday life and human movement.

4. The Louvre Copyist

Before embarking on his artistic career properly, Degas worked as a copyist at The Louvre Museum, where he meticulously imitated works by past masters. This experience honed his technical skills and laid the foundation for his future artistic style, emphasizing attention to detail and realism.

5. Notable Artworks and Museum Recognition

“A Cotton Office in New Orleans” remains the only artwork purchased by a museum during Degas' lifetime, highlighting the artist's diverse interests and his accomplishments in various genres. This unique piece showcases Degas' ability to capture the spirit of different environments and cultures, even outside of his homeland.

6. Financial Acumen and Family Support

While Degas was known for his artistic talent, he was equally adept at managing his finances. He sold his house and a significant art collection to pay off his brother’s debts, demonstrating his practical and considerate nature.

7. Deeply Divisive Personal Views

Degas' personal views and beliefs were often polarizing. He was anti-Semitic and took steps to distance himself from his Jewish friends, which has cast a shadow over his legacy. This personal aspect of Degas’ life is important to acknowledge, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the artist.

8. Artistic Influences

Three primary artists influenced Degas: Jacques-Louis David, Ingres, and Eugène Delacroix. David’s classical style, Ingres' delineation, and Delacroix's expressive qualities all played a role in shaping Degas' unique artistic language. Recognizing these influences helps us better understand the complexity and depth of Degas' work.

9. Reflections on Life and Art

Degas' reflections on art were profound and multifaceted. His beliefs about art evolved, and he experimented with various techniques and mediums. Despite his contributions to the Impressionist movement, he valued realism and the depth of his subjects over the transient effects of light and color.

10. A Life of Singlehood and Blindness

Edgar Degas’ personal life was marked by solitary living, as he never married. Towards the end of his life, he suffered from near-total blindness, which did not diminish his passion for art. His heartfelt and detailed works from this period speak to his enduring commitment to his art despite his physical limitations.

Edgar Degas stands as a testament to the power of artistic vision and the enduring curiosity that drives great artists. His journey from history painter to master of impressionism and realism is a compelling narrative in the history of art. Degas' legacy continues to inspire and educate, offering us a closer look into the lives and minds of our forebears in the artistic world.