Horse and Rider (c. 1878)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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More about this artwork
Titled "Horse and Rider" and dating back to around 1878, this evocative sketch reflects the prowess of French artist Edgar Degas in capturing movement and form. The artwork features a beautifully rendered horse, poised and alert, with a rider who, despite being somewhat indistinct, conveys a sense of regal posture and ease. The use of charcoal allows Degas to create texture and depth, with light and shadows playing across the muscle contours of the horse and the form of the rider.In true Degas fashion, the focus on everyday moments and their underlying dynamism is palpable here. The composition's simplicity belies a complex understanding of equine anatomy and human posture, themes often revisited by Degas, who had a profound interest in the ballet and horse racing. This piece not only highlights his fascination with horses—a frequent subject in his works—but also showcases his mastery in the portrayal of fleeting moments with enduring impact.