Horses and Jockeys 1890

Edgar Degas made this painting, Horses and Jockeys, sometime in the late 19th century. It captures horses and jockeys in what appears to be a moment of preparation or leisurely riding, rather than the heat of a race. Made in France, this work reflects the growing interest in leisure and sporting culture among the Parisian bourgeoisie. Degas was a key figure in the Impressionist movement, but unlike some of his peers, he focused less on pure landscape and more on scenes of modern life, including the theater and the racetrack. Horse racing was becoming increasingly popular and commercialized, attracting large crowds and significant investment. Degas's choice of subject matter speaks to the changing social landscape of France, and his loose brushwork suggests the fleeting nature of these modern spectacles. To fully appreciate the social commentary embedded in this and similar works, we can consult period newspapers, social surveys, and other historical documents. Art doesn't exist in a vacuum; it's a product of its time.