Head of a Horse is a powerful preparatory drawing created by Edgar Degas between 1873 and 1883. Executed in graphite on wove paper, the drawing showcases Degas's meticulous study of equine anatomy. Unlike his ballet studies which often focused on controlled, internalized movement, his studies of horses captured dynamic, external force and speed. The lines are precise yet fluid, capturing the animal's musculature, tense alertness, and the strong bone structure necessary for powerful movement.
The intensive study of horses was central to Degas's oeuvre, allowing him to explore dynamic form and sequential motion, sometimes utilizing photographic techniques to break down galloping action. This particular study, Head of a Horse, emphasizes the creature's strong profile and expression, reflecting the artist’s dedication to realistic representation rather than idealized classical form. These equestrian drawings demonstrate the foundational draftsmanship that underpinned his famed Impressionist-era works.
The piece is classified simply as a drawing and is housed in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a valuable example of the artist’s preparatory methods. The enduring appeal and historical significance of this subject matter ensure that reproductions, including various prints, are widely available through institutions whose images have entered the public domain. The Metropolitan Museum of Art preserves this work as an important record of Degas's dedication to mastering the complexities of the animal form.
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