At the Races, the Start

Title: Edgar Degas’ “”At the Races, the Start””: A Captivating Glimpse into Human Drama

Year Painted: 1877-1880

Edgar Degas’ painting “”At the Races, the Start”” is a remarkable masterpiece created between 1877 and 1880. This captivating artwork provides a unique perspective on horse racing, showcasing Degas’ extraordinary talent for capturing movement and composition.

Degas, a prominent French Impressionist painter, was known for his ability to depict everyday scenes with a touch of elegance and realism. In “”At the Races, the Start,”” he deviates from the traditional focus on the horses themselves and instead shifts our attention to the jockeys, creating a sense of human drama and anticipation.

The painting portrays a crucial moment before the race begins, as the jockeys mount their horses and prepare for the exhilarating contest ahead. Degas’ composition draws the viewer into the scene, allowing us to feel the tension and excitement that fills the air. The horses are rendered with swift brushstrokes, their powerful muscles captured in mid-motion, while the jockeys’ vibrant silks and focused expressions reveal their determination and competitive spirit.

What makes “”At the Races, the Start”” truly special is Degas’ innovative approach to capturing movement and his meticulous attention to detail. He was known to visit the racecourse frequently, observing the races firsthand and sketching the scenes before immortalizing them on canvas. Through his keen observations, Degas was able to depict not only the physicality of the race but also the emotional intensity experienced by the jockeys.

The painting’s composition is carefully crafted, with the jockeys positioned in diagonal lines that create a sense of dynamic movement. Degas’ use of color is also noteworthy, as he skillfully employs a muted palette to evoke a sense of realism and atmosphere. The overall effect is one of immersion, as if the viewer is present at the racetrack, witnessing the anticipation and adrenaline of the start.

“”At the Races, the Start”” is a testament to Degas’ mastery of capturing fleeting moments and his ability to convey the human narrative within them. By focusing on the jockeys rather than the horses, Degas offers a fresh perspective on horse racing, elevating it beyond a mere sporting event to a glimpse into the human condition.

Today, this painting is housed in the collection of the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, where it continues to captivate art enthusiasts with its emotive power and technical brilliance. Edgar Degas’ “”At the Races, the Start”” remains a timeless and significant work, inviting viewers to contemplate the thrill and tension of competition while highlighting the delicate balance between artistry and realism that defined Degas’ career.