Dancer Looking at the Sole of her Right Foot

The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Dancer Looking at the Sole of her Right Foot as sculpture (France, 19th century · 1896–97).

WHY IT’S INTERESTING

Degas often frequented the Garnier opera house in Paris to observe the dancers during both onstage performances and backstage rehearsals. Paying careful attention to their movements and poses, he produced nearly 1,500 works depicting ballet dancers, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures.

SERENDIPITYA little unexpected

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A CLOSER LOOK

The museum identifies this sculpture as bronze and credits Edgar Degas (French, 1834–1917).

The museum's collection notes: Degas produced numerous wax sculptures during his lifetime that were cast in bronze shortly after his death. This late work continues his fascination with dancers and the physical sensation of the human body in motion. Marks made by artist's fingers are visible in the bronze surface.

FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE

The Cleveland Museum of ArtDancer Looking at the Sole of her Right Foot

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