Description:This fascinating glimpse into Edgar Degas’s creative process reveals a meticulous study of figural forms and an experimentation with composition. This appears to be a rough sketch for a possible future work; Degas has visualized his thought process in an elegant and effortless biblical scene. He plays with variants of drapery and architectural schemes, using light and shading to balance with horizon lines and perspective. Not only is it a sketch of the larger composition, but also a study of the organic movements and gestural qualities of each of the subjects in this work. The use of brown ink against a crème-colored wove paper gives it a more personal, earthy quality evoking a deeper connection with the artist and his creative process.
According to Dr. Theodore Reff (Columbia University), this figural study is reminiscent of the fine pen strokes and sketched style in brown ink that Degas utilized in many of his sketchbooks during his first trip to Rome. Dr. Reff has further attributed this work to Edgar Degas in a signed statement that will be included with the sale of this piece. The work also includes a label from Shepherd Gallery, NY detailing artist/piece information and exhibition history.
PROVENANCE:
~ René de Gas, Paris
~ Odette de Gas & Roland Nepveu, Paris
~ Jean Nepveu-Degas, Paris
~ Shepherd Gallery, New York
EXHIBITED:
Drawings, Paintings and Sculpture of the 19th Century – Winter Exhibition 1981, Shepherd Gallery, NY.
Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
It is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work).
1. Reff, Dr. Theodore. Statement of expertise which attributes this work to the hand of Edgar Degas. Signed and dated, 25 September 2008.
2. A Masterworks Fine Art, Inc. Certificate of Authenticity will accompany this work.
About the Framing:
Framed in a robust, Baroque-inspired gold moulding with a bronze finish, the wide-set and organic carving of the framing detail serves to complement Degas’s composition and grandeur of the piece. Completed with white, linen-wrapped mats and a matching gold inner fillet, Scène Biblique is set behind an archival Plexiglas® cover.
