Edgar Degas (1834-1917) was an outspoken proponent of a new sensibility. He and his
contemporaries, known as the Impressionists, organized independent exhibitions in which
they showed their controversial work. Degas's style, subject matter, and artistic
sensibility set him apart from the other Impressionists.
In addition to his artistic endeavors, Degas amassed a collection of art so vast and of
such substance that he considered establishing his own private museum to house it. The
Musèe Degas was never realized; instead, his collection was auctioned off in 1918.
Learn more about Edgar Degas, his times, his
work, and his collection through this on-line
exploration created in conjunction with the international loan exhibition "The
Private Collection of Edgar Degas" and the Teacher Workshop "Postures and Poses:
The Art of Edgar Degas."
Please note that the works illustrated in this section, although part of the
Metropolitan's collection, may not always be on view in the galleries.