Degas and Other Sketches 1877

This is a page of sketches by Edgar Degas, dating probably from the mid-19th century in France. These drawings offer us a glimpse into the artistic process, highlighting the artist’s exploration of form and expression through portraiture. What's particularly interesting here is the way the artist, who came from an aristocratic family, captures the nuances of bourgeois identity. Note the subtle details of clothing and grooming, signifiers of social status in the rapidly changing urban landscape of Paris. Degas was part of a circle of artists that included Manet, Pissarro, and others, who sought to revolutionize art by depicting scenes of modern life. His focus on portraiture reflects broader cultural trends that focused on the individual. Historians often consult letters, diaries, and other archival materials to contextualize artworks. Only through such research can we grasp the complex interplay between artistic expression and social context.