Dancer Looking at the Sole of Her Right Foot c. 1890s

Edgar Degas created this bronze sculpture of a dancer sometime in the late 19th century, a period marked by significant shifts in social structures and artistic expression. Degas, known for his focus on the female form, particularly dancers, often captured them in intimate, unguarded moments. Here, we see a dancer paused, her body twisted in a seemingly casual yet carefully balanced pose, as she gazes at the sole of her foot. The pose itself speaks volumes. Is she inspecting an injury, or simply taking a moment of rest amidst rigorous training? Degas's work exists within the complex narrative of the ballet world at the time, where dancers, often from working-class backgrounds, were simultaneously celebrated and exploited. While Degas's sculptures can be admired for their technical skill and aesthetic beauty, they also invite reflection on the social dynamics and power structures inherent within the world of dance. The sculpture encourages us to consider the individual stories of these dancers, their struggles, and their resilience.