Jockeys 1895

Edgar Degas made this oil painting, Jockeys, in France at a time of great social change. Degas gives us a glimpse into the world of horse racing, a popular spectacle enjoyed by all social classes. The image creates meaning through its visual codes and historical associations. Notice the loose brushstrokes and muted colors, giving it a sense of movement and immediacy. Horse racing was a microcosm of French society at the time, with its own hierarchies and rituals. The painting doesn't shy away from critiquing the institutions of art through its subject matter and style. Understanding the social and institutional context of Degas's Jockeys requires research into the history of horse racing in France, the development of Impressionism, and the social dynamics of Parisian society during the late 19th century. By exploring these resources, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the complex meanings embedded within this artwork.