Study of a Ballet Dancer seen from the Back

The Study of a Ballet Dancer seen from the Back is a captivating drawing executed by Edgar Degas in 1875. This intimate study utilizes black chalk on a sheet of faded pink wove paper, showcasing the artist's foundational techniques in capturing dynamic human movement and the demanding world of the ballet. Degas was deeply fascinated by the subject of women dancers, observing them both in performance and behind the scenes in rehearsal. This particular piece emphasizes structure and posture, capturing the precise line and volume of a dancer preparing for or concluding a movement, the black chalk contrasting sharply with the colored paper to define form.

Unlike many of the highly polished, large-scale finished paintings of ballet scenes, this drawing demonstrates Degas's rapid, observational draftsmanship. The choice of medium allows for quick definition of forms, emphasizing the sculptural quality of the dancer's back, skirt (tutu), and arms. While often associated with the Impressionists, Degas preferred to be known as a Realist, focusing on controlled studio compositions and intimate preparatory studies such as this one. The work is crucial for understanding his rigorous process of breaking down complex poses into simple, repeatable lines, establishing his mastery among 19th-century French artists.

The sustained interest in Degas's studies of women and the ballet ensures that preparatory works like this remain highly influential. This important artwork resides in the renowned collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it is classified as a significant drawing. Due to its age and stature, the image is often made available through public domain initiatives, allowing historians and enthusiasts access to high-quality prints and reproductions of this essential piece.