The Life and Works of Degas

Although Degas is regarded as one of the founders of Impressionism, & shared a fondness for scenes from modern life, he did not share their enthisasm for light & color, preferring to concentrate on composition, drawing & form. His techniques were highly original, owing something to the current vogue for Japanese prints, giving a 'snapshot' effect, with figures ofen cropped off at the top or sides. This splendid book shows many of Degas' most famous works At the Races, in front of the Stand, is typical - seemingly casual, yet worked out to the last detail; the Dance Class, showing how he loved informal poses & an unusual viewwwpoint, & his matter-of-fact nudes, such as The Tub.