Edgar Degas
Edgar Degas (1834–1917) was a French artist famous for his paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings, particularly of ballet dancers and scenes of modern Parisian life. Born in Paris, Degas trained at the École des Beaux-Arts and spent time in Italy studying Renaissance art. He initially focused on history painting, but his interest shifted toward contemporary subjects. Degas is often associated with the Impressionists, although he preferred to describe himself as a realist. His works frequently feature figures in motion, particularly dancers, bathers, and jockeys, rendered with an exceptional eye for movement and anatomy.
Degas was a master of capturing the human form and experimented with various mediums, including pastels, oils, and bronze. His use of unusual perspectives and cropping, as well as his focus on urban life and everyday scenes, made him a key figure in modern art. His works are now displayed in many of the world’s most prestigious museums, including the Musée d'Orsay and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
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Full Name: Hilaire-Germain-Edgar Degas
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Birth and Death: 1834–1917
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Profession: Painter, Sculptor, Printmaker
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Influences: Realism, Impressionism
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Legacy: A pioneering figure in modern art, Degas’s works are renowned for their dynamic compositions and depictions of Parisian life.