Saturday, July 31, 2010

The Dancing Class, Edgar Degas 1873

Apparently, ballet dancers in the 19th century were considered the lowly women (aka sluts) of society. But, I could be wrong. Nevertheless, the reputation of these performers was much different than it is today. Edgar Degas' art suddenly became way more interesting, to me as least.

Presenting Edgar Degas, the Impressionist artist famous for his behind-the-scene depictions of ballet dancers. The intimacy he was able to convey and the unique subject he chose to paint allures us, while the warm tones and soft brush strokes creates a mellow aura. Degas backstage access gave him some notability, since his position in this risque world was both looked down upon and envied. My History of Art professor cracked a joke about how nowadays most of Degas work are on coasters or doormats. Funny how such scandalous work, back in the day, has submerged itself into so many American homes.

Oh whatever, it's a pretty picture.

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