Actresses in Their Dressing Rooms 1879 - 1880

Edgar Degas created this etching, "Actresses in Their Dressing Rooms," offering us a glimpse into the private spaces of performers during the late 19th century. Degas was known for his interest in the lives of women, particularly dancers and actresses, and his work often explores the contrast between their public image and private selves. In this print, we see women in various stages of undress and preparation, caught between performances. The intimate setting allows Degas to explore themes of identity and representation. The women are not idealized; they are shown in moments of vulnerability, challenging the traditional male gaze. The use of shadow adds to the feeling of intimacy and discretion, inviting us to consider the complexities of these women's lives and the roles they play, both on and off the stage. As Degas once said: “It is essential to do the same subject over and over again.” Here he prompts us to reflect on the societal expectations placed on women, then and now, and the emotional labor involved in performing gender.