The artwork titled “Racehorses” was painted by Edgar Degas in 1884. This piece is executed in oil on canvas and embodies the Impressionist movement. It is considered a genre painting and, as of the last update, it resides within a private collection.
In the painting, Degas depicts a group of jockeys atop their horses, seemingly either preparing for a race or in a casual moment possibly before or after the competition. The scene is set against a landscape backdrop that includes rolling hills and a wide expanse of sky. The brushwork is loose and expressive, indicative of the Impressionist style, focusing on the effects of light and color rather than intricate detail. The figures are portrayed with a sense of movement and vitality, yet there is no clear indication of action, leaving the viewer to imagine the narrative. Degas’ choice of earthy colors conveys a naturalistic feel, and the varying postures and positions of the horses and riders add a dynamic quality to the composition.
