The Artist’s Cousin, Probably Mrs. William Bell (Mathilde Musson, 1841–1878) (1873)

Edgar Degas was a French Impressionist artist, celebrated for his exceptional pastel drawings and oil paintings. While he was often linked to the Impressionist movement, Degas regarded himself as a realist, centering his attention on modern urban life and creating dynamic compositions. His inventive techniques and masterful use of light left a profound influence on the late nineteenth-century art world.

Beyond his paintings, Degas created an impressive range of works, which encompass bronze sculptures, prints, and drawings. He continually experimented with various media, and his sculptures—especially "Little Dancer of Fourteen Years"—are acclaimed for their striking realism and expressive qualities.

Degas is most strongly associated with the theme of dance; over half of his artworks portray ballet dancers. He depicted the elegance, discipline, and strength of young ballerinas, frequently showing them during rehearsals or moments of rest instead of on stage. Through these intimate, unguarded scenes, Degas presented his singular perspective and a profound admiration for both movement and form.

During his career, Degas also illustrated ordinary life, capturing scenes in cafés, milliners at their craft, and horse racing events. His acute observations and original compositions have ensured a lasting legacy, and today, his art continues to be celebrated and displayed in prominent museums worldwide.