Yellow Dancers (In the Wings)

Edgar Degas (French) 1874/76 Edgar Degas made a significant shift in his artistic focus in 1871 when he began painting dancers as an independent subject. This marked the beginning of a prolific period in which almost half of his artistic output was dedicated to capturing the world of dance, particularly through observations at the Paris Opéra. In these works, Degas positioned the viewer in the wings, offering a glimpse into the backstage area and the interactions among the elite Opéra subscribers. Degas's exploration of dance subjects allowed him to contemporize his lifelong interest in depicting the human body in intricate movement. By shifting his scenes from ancient history to modern Paris, he brought a fresh perspective to his art. The canvas in question, depicting dancers backstage, was completed and signed in time for the second Impressionist exhibition in April 1876, showcasing Degas's commitment to capturing the essence of contemporary life and movement. Make a statement in