Paintings of dancers

Degas was nicknamed the “painter of dancers”. From 1860 onwards, he developed a fascination with dance, which was originally discovered at the Paris Opera, where he spent much time backstage. As a result of his interest, his paintings portrayed the dancers in private behind-the-scenes moments, as well as during their performances on stage. Take a look back over the love story between the artist and his tutu-clad muses.

Edgar Degas, Avant la Classe (Before the Class), c. 1888-89, Lithograph (S)

1882. Oil on canvas. 239.4 x 348 cms | 94 ¼ x 137 ins. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, United States

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