Harlequin Dance c. 1890

Edgar Degas's pastel drawing "Harlequin Dance" (c. 1890) depicts a scene from a ballet performance. Degas is well-known for his depictions of dancers, particularly in rehearsals and backstage settings, and this piece captures the grace and motion of ballerinas. The artwork features a harlequin figure in a colorful costume standing in the foreground, while three ballerinas in green and white tutus move across the stage in the background. The use of pastel creates a soft, delicate feel and captures the ephemeral nature of dance. Degas's keen eye for detail and his exploration of light and shadow contribute to the sense of realism and dynamism in the piece.