Degas started painting at a relatively young age. His father and many unmarried uncles were the predominant influences on him for the rest of his childhood when his mother passed away when he was 13 years of age. At the age of 11, Degas enrolled at the Lycée Louis-le-Grand to start his formal schooling. This led to him becoming a classic artist that portrayed modern life – a unique and captivating style that would ensure his popularity with many people.ĭegas was born into a reasonably well-off family in Paris, France. Due to his studies of classical art and academic training, he initially wanted to be a history painter, but in his 30s he decided that he would prefer to portray more contemporaneous subject matter. Self-Portrait (1857) by Edgar Degas Edgar Degas, CC0, via Wikimedia Commonsĭegas’ portraits were particularly noted for their portrayal of psychological complexity and isolation.

Besides Degas’ ballerina paintings, he also liked to produce portraits, as well as paintings of racehorses and jockeys. While Degas the artist was often labeled an Impressionist, he did not paint outdoors as traditional Impressionists did. 5.3 What Was Edgar Degas’ Most Prominent Subject Matter?Īlthough the French painter Edgar Degas’ paintings are often the most discussed element of his oeuvre, Degas’ sculptures were another notable part of his overall work, as well as his drawings and prints.

5.2 Were Edgar Degas’ Sculptures Popular?.5.1 Was Edgar Degas the Artist an Impressionist?.

Edgar degas complete works