Study of Horses c. 1886

Edgar Degas created this Study of Horses with graphite on paper. The composition presents multiple sketches of horses, some with riders, capturing different poses and movements. What stands out is the artist's focus on line and form. The lines are not just descriptive; they’re expressive, conveying the energy and musculature of the horses with an economy of means. Notice how Degas uses varying line weights to suggest depth and volume, a technique that brings the figures to life despite the limited tonal range. The choice of medium and the sketch-like quality open a window into Degas's artistic process. The unfinished appearance reveals an emphasis on capturing fleeting moments and the essence of movement, rather than a polished, idealized representation. This approach aligns with the broader artistic shifts of the time, challenging academic conventions in favor of a more immediate, sensory experience. Consider the structural integrity of each sketch – the way lines converge and diverge to define form. This reflects Degas's engagement with the dynamic interplay between observation and representation, inviting us to contemplate the very act of seeing.