Degas: a master among masters

Abstract

This bulletin essay is adapted from the author's collection of essays, Degas: The Artist's Mind. An encompassing exhibition, Degas in the Metropolitan, drew from the museum's holdings of 176 works in all media. Theodore Reff curated the exhibit. A large number of Degas works from the exhibit illustrate the text of the essay. Degas' neo-classical training and sources of inspiration (Ingres, Delacroix and Daumier) are examined. His early portraiture style was based on that of Ingres. By 1860, Degas synthesized the styles of Ingres and Delacroix. Studies of the Venetian technique of underpainting and glazing led to his later pastel technique. His contemporary, Manet, also inspired the artist as did Gaugin a decade later in his sculptures. By 1880, the colors of Delacroix could be seen emerging from the palette of Degas. Photographs of horses in motion leads to a close examination of the rendering of images in paintings and pastels. Degas collected Japanese prints and learned from their design and color harmony. Many monotypes ressemble Rembrandt's late etchings in their mood and lighting. This is an art historical reference for the work of Edgar Degas.