Artwork preview

Dancer in the Role of Harlequin

Edgar Degas

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a human figure in a dynamic pose. She is leaning forward, balancing on one leg with the other leg bent backward. Her upper body is curved to the left, with her right hand on her bent knee and her head turned upwards to the left. The bronze sculpture has detailed textural work, typical of such art. It is mounted on a rectangular wooden base, contrasting with the metallic finish. The sculpture appears life-sized, capturing the figure in a moment of poised tension.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1884/1885
Medium
pigmented beeswax, metal armature, on wooden base
Dimensions
1524 × 1200 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original