Degas, (Hilaire Germain) Edgar (1834-1917), French painter and sculptor, known for his innovative composition, skillful drawing, and perceptive analysis of movement. Degas was born in Paris. As he developed his artistry, he became interested in theatrical subjects, and most of his works depict racecourses, theaters, cafés, music halls, or boudoirs. In his portraits and studies of dancers, milliners, and laundresses, he attempted to render his subjects in natural and spontaneous poses. His subjects often appear cropped at the edges, as in Ballet Rehearsal (1876, Glasgow Art Galleries and Museum, Scotland) and Woman with Chrysanthemums (1865, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City).

When his eyesight began to fail in the 1880s, Degas began to create sculptures and simple pastels. In these works he depended on vibrant colors and meaningful gestures rather than precise lines and careful detailing. In his sculpture, as in his paintings, he attempted to catch the action of the moment.