Large Sculpture - Little Dancer of Fourteen Years - Edgar Degas

The Poise and Elegance of Little Dancer of Fourteen Years - Large Sculpture by Edgar Degas

The Little Dancer of Fourteen Years is one of the most iconic works in the history of sculpture. Crafted by Edgar Degas in 1881, this bronze masterpiece captures the poise, vulnerability, and determination of a young ballerina at the Paris Opera Ballet. Its realistic depiction of youth and movement marked a groundbreaking departure from traditional classical sculpture, introducing the modern world to Degas’ bold artistic vision.

Edgar Degas: Master of Movement and Emotion

Edgar Degas, born on July 19, 1834, in Paris, France, is celebrated as a pioneer of modern realism. Although often associated with Impressionism, Degas diverged from the movement by focusing on the human figure rather than landscapes. His works capture fleeting moments with an almost photographic quality, emphasizing motion and emotion. Degas passed away on September 27, 1917, in his beloved Paris, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and introspection.

The Origins of the Sculpture

Degas originally modeled the Little Dancer of Fourteen Years in wax, presenting it at the Sixth Impressionist Exhibition in 1881. The sculpture was inspired by Marie van Goethem, a young ballet student of the Paris Opera Ballet. At the time, Degas was deeply immersed in the world of dance, sketching and sculpting dancers as they rehearsed and performed. The sculpture caused both admiration and controversy when first displayed, as its unvarnished realism challenged conventional artistic norms.

A Life Cast in Bronze

The original wax figure was adorned with real fabric and a wig of human hair, blurring the line between sculpture and life. After Degas’ death, the wax model was cast in bronze by Hébrard Foundry, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The bronze figure captures every intricate detail, from the delicate folds of the dancer's skirt to the serene confidence of her expression, exemplifying Degas’ meticulous craftsmanship.

The Significance of the Ballerina

Marie van Goethem, the young dancer who posed for Degas, symbolizes the hard work and sacrifice demanded by the world of ballet. The sculpture reflects not just her physical presence but her inner strength and resolve. With her chin slightly raised and arms clasped behind her back, the figure exudes a quiet dignity that transcends time.

A Bold Departure from Tradition

When it was first exhibited, the Little Dancer of Fourteen Years was unlike anything the art world had seen before. It broke with the idealized forms of classical sculpture, instead presenting an unidealized, raw portrayal of a working-class young girl. This authenticity initially shocked some critics but ultimately cemented the piece as a trailblazer in modern art.

The Essence of Movement

Degas’ fascination with movement is evident in this sculpture. His deep understanding of the human form, honed through countless sketches and studies, is brought to life in the subtle tilt of the dancer’s head and the natural fall of her skirt. This work encapsulates the grace and effort required of dancers, offering a glimpse into the rigor of their training.

A Window into Parisian Life

The Little Dancer of Fourteen Years is not merely a sculpture; it is a cultural artifact that offers insight into the lives of young performers in late 19th-century Paris. It speaks to the aspirations of working-class girls who entered the world of ballet, hoping to achieve success and stability in a challenging profession.

Universality of Youthful Ambition

While grounded in a specific time and place, the sculpture’s themes of perseverance and ambition resonate universally. It captures a fleeting moment in the life of a young girl, reflecting the dreams and struggles of youth with a timeless poignancy.

A Symbol of Degas’ Genius

Today, the Little Dancer of Fourteen Years is celebrated as one of Degas’ greatest achievements. It embodies his innovative approach to art, blending realism with emotional depth. This large bronze sculpture, bearing the artist’s signature, is not just an artistic triumph but also a testament to the enduring power of Degas’ vision. Whether displayed in a gallery or a private collection, it stands as a tribute to the beauty of the human spirit and the transformative power of art.

Height: 97 cm
Width: 46 cm
Depth: 40 cm
Weight: 25 kg
100 % bronze