Dancer Resting with a Fan

Dancer Resting with a Fan, created by Edgar Degas French, 1834-1917 between 1890 and 1895, exemplifies the artist’s late-career exploration of the dancer motif. Classified as a drawing, this intimate work utilizes charcoal applied with the technique of stumping on tan wove tracing paper. The inherent translucency and texture of the tracing paper, combined with the softening effect of stumping, allowed Degas to achieve a nuanced, atmospheric modeling that suggests both rapid observation and careful study of form. This initial support was subsequently laid down on a cream wood-pulp laminate board for stability and preservation.

As a pivotal figure in French art, Degas consistently returned to the world of the Parisian Opéra, capturing dancers not in the idealized setting of performance, but in moments of exertion or relaxation backstage. The resting figure, casually holding a fan, demonstrates Degas’s commitment to depicting unposed, naturalistic movement. The technique employed focuses intensely on capturing three-dimensional form and volume through shadow, highlighting the physicality of the performer. Although often associated with Impressionism, Degas's profound technical discipline and focus on structural integrity distinguish his contributions to the art scene in France during the fin-de-siècle.

The quality of line and tone visible in this piece made such studies highly sought after by collectors. This important drawing is now a highlight of the Art Institute of Chicago’s collection. The extensive body of work Degas produced documenting dancers has made his imagery instantly recognizable worldwide, and as much of his material has entered the public domain, high-quality prints reflecting his original drawing techniques remain widely popular.