Painter

Edgar Degas

Edgar Degas was a French artist associated with the Impressionists who became known for ballet dancers, horse racing, portraits, and carefully observed scenes of modern Parisian life.


Edgar Degas quick facts

A concise reference for his life, work, and painting approach.

Edgar Degas quick facts
Full nameHilaire-Germain-Edgar Degas
BornJuly 19, 1834 · Paris, France
DiedSeptember 27, 1917 · Paris, France
NationalityFrench
Associated movementImpressionism, although Degas preferred the term realist
Paint mediaOil paint · Watercolor · Gouache
Other mediaPastel, monotype, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and photography
Common subjectsBallet dancers, horse racing, portraits, bathers, cafés, and modern urban life

Sources: National Gallery of Art, The Met: The Rehearsal of the Ballet Onstage, The Met: Dancer Onstage, and National Gallery of Art: The Races.