The Races, painted by Edgar Degas between 1871 and 1872, is an intimate yet dynamic depiction executed in oil on wood. This work belongs to the critical period of 1851 to 1875, a time when the French art scene was rapidly evolving, moving away from academic standards toward the documentation of modern life. Degas, a central figure in this transition, frequently chose subjects representing contemporary Parisian leisure, particularly the theater, dance, and the burgeoning culture of sports.
The artist’s decision to paint on wood allowed for a smooth, highly controlled application of color, typical of his smaller, focused studies. While the painting may lack the expansive scale of traditional history canvases, its detailed observation of the racing environment showcases Degas’s mastery of figure and animal anatomy in motion. He was less interested in the dramatic finish of the race than in the moments immediately preceding or following it-the preparations, the anticipation, or the riders regrouping after the event. The composition reflects the influence of Japanese ukiyo-e prints and early photography, often employing unconventional cropping and asymmetrical layouts that place the viewer directly into the immediate action.
Degas's rigorous focus on the dynamics of modern life distinguished him within the Impressionist circle. Although he shared their interest in capturing fleeting moments, his technique remained rooted in drawing and controlled studio work rather than plein air painting. The subject matter within The Races provides valuable insight into the social customs of the late nineteenth century and the growth of equestrian culture.
This significant piece resides in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, where it serves as a key example of the artist’s prolific output during this era. As a celebrated work by this renowned French master, high-quality images and related studies are widely available, ensuring the piece’s accessibility for scholars through public domain resources and fine art prints.
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