Angel Blowing a Trumpet

Angel Blowing a Trumpet by Edgar Degas, executed between 1857 and 1859, is a powerful early example of the artist's developing draftsmanship. This drawing, classified as a student work, was created using black chalk on paper. The monochromatic medium allowed the artist to focus intently on form, volume, and the dynamic movement of the celestial figure, emphasizing contour and light-and-shadow studies typical of academic preparation.

This early work reflects the demanding curriculum of the French art establishment and Degas’s deep engagement with historical and religious subject matter before he became known for his modern Parisian scenes of ballet dancers and racetracks. The figure depicted, likely intended as a study for a larger, historical or mythological composition, demonstrates the powerful influence of Italian Renaissance and Baroque masters whose work Degas extensively studied during his formative years in France and Italy.

The meticulous shading and robust form of the angel illustrate Degas’s rigorous skill in rendering the figure with structural integrity. This period marks a crucial preparatory phase where the artist concentrated on classical subjects, adhering closely to the traditional expectations of the Academy. While later works by Degas would explore the fleeting nature of contemporary life, this piece serves as vital evidence of the classical foundation that underpinned his revolutionary later style.

As a significant drawing from a major figure in French art history, the work provides important insight into the artist’s education. This particular piece resides in the esteemed collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, contributing to a substantial public domain resource of high-quality fine art.