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Edgar Degas' painting "Before the Race" (1882) is a work that reflects the artist's mastery in depicting human activity and his fascination with movement, as well as his dedication to themes associated with the social circle and activities of the time of his era. Degas, renowned for his ability to capture fleeting moments and subtle emotions, delves into the world of horse racing, a very popular subject in 19th-century Parisian society. Through this work, the viewer witnesses a scene that combines both anticipation and preparation.
The composition of Before the Race is intriguing and complex. Degas employs an unusual perspective, allowing the viewer to almost peer between the characters in the scene, creating a sense of closeness and intimacy. In the foreground, two figures, who appear to be jockeys, stand out, capturing the moment before the race. The focused gaze of one of them, who is mounted on his horse, suggests a mix of nervousness and determination. In contrast, the other jockey stands patiently waiting, his relaxed posture complementing the palpable tension in the air.
The choice of colours in this work is particularly notable. Degas uses a palette that includes greens and earth tones, evoking not only the nature of the racecourse but also the sophistication of the event. Subtle layers of pigment, applied in loose brushstrokes, facilitate a vibrant atmosphere that brings the scene to life and reinforces the delicacy and immediacy of the moment. Degas is renowned for his ability to make figures appear almost floating, a technique that is here manifest in the way the jockeys interact with their surroundings.
The characters in the painting, although not identifiable individual portraits, represent an archetype of Parisian culture of the time. The inclusion of elements such as horses and jockeys' equipment underlines the appeal of the sport, reflecting a moment of preparation that anticipates competition. This is a recurring feature in many of Degas's works, where he often captures the moment before a significant event, whether in dance, theatre or, in this case, horse racing.
Furthermore, Before the Race can be read not only as a depiction of a social event, but also as a meditation on the people surrounding said event. Degas, as part of the Impressionist movement, challenged the conventions of academic painting of his time, often incorporating natural light and a focus on modern experience into his works. This work, though anchored in a traditional event, is infused with a modern aesthetic that continues to resonate today, showing the immediacy of the moment in which everything is anticipation.
The attention to detail in the jockeys' attire is also noteworthy. Degas emphasizes the jockeys' colorful outfits, which not only serve as a distinctive feature at the races, but also contribute to the vibrant palette of the work as a whole. This attention to costume detail reflects Degas' interest in performance art and identity within the social circles of his time.
In short, Before the Race is a magnificent example of Edgar Degas' talent for capturing the essence of a fleeting moment and the character of his subjects. Through his skill in manipulating light, perspective and color, Degas manages to transform an everyday event into a rich and evocative visual experience. This work is not only a testament to Impressionist art, but also a profound reflection of the social and cultural dynamics of its time, making it a fundamental piece for understanding the development of modern art.
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