Artwork preview

Dancer Holding Her Right Foot in Her Right Hand

Edgar Degas

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a nude human figure in a balancing pose, standing on one leg while holding the other foot with one hand behind their back. The arm opposite the bent leg is extended sideways for balance. The figure has an abstract, textured surface suggesting a rough finish, with discernible facial features and a slightly tilted head. It is made of dark bronze, giving it a metallic sheen and an aged appearance. The sculpture stands on a flat, irregularly shaped base that is affixed to a wooden platform, which provides stability. The dimensions of the figure and its stance create a dynamic visual interest, suggesting motion and balance, while the metal rod behind the figure supports the weight.

Artwork Details

Date
possibly 1900/1911
Medium
pigmented beeswax, metal armature, wood?, cork, on wooden base
Dimensions
3966 × 4872 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original