Jockeys 1886

Edgar Degas created this painting using pastels, layering dry pigment to depict a group of jockeys on horseback. The powdery quality of the pastel lends itself well to the hazy atmosphere of the racetrack, capturing the soft light and movement of the scene. Degas applied the pastels in short, broken strokes, building up color and texture to create a sense of depth and volume. He was fascinated with capturing fleeting moments in time. Horse racing in the 19th century wasn’t just a sport; it was a high-stakes world of gambling and social spectacle. The jockeys, often from working-class backgrounds, risked their lives for wealthy owners and spectators. Degas’ choice of pastel, a medium often associated with Impressionism, allowed him to capture the energy and excitement of this world, while hinting at the social dynamics at play. Looking closely at the artwork and its materials helps us to recognize the complexity that lies beneath the surface. It prompts us to consider art making as a way of engaging with the world around us.