Portrait of Henri Michel-Levy in his studio 1879

Edgar Degas painted this portrait of Henri Michel-Levy, a fellow artist, using oil on canvas. The painting offers an intimate view into the artistic and social circles of 19th-century Paris. Michel-Levy is depicted in a casual yet self-assured pose, indicative of the burgeoning class of artists who sought to redefine societal norms through their work. Degas, known for his complex social observations, captures Michel-Levy’s identity as both a contemporary and a peer. This portrait exists against the backdrop of a rapidly changing art world. There is an emotional depth in Degas’ work, as it subtly challenges traditional portraiture by presenting a working artist within the messy context of his studio rather than in a conventional, staged setting. The painting not only reflects the personal relationship between the two artists but also comments on the evolving identity of the artist in modern society, balancing individuality with communal belonging.