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Henri Degas and his niece Lucie Degas (the uncle and cousin of the artist)
- Original dimensions
- 119.9 x 99.8 cm
- Museum
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Year
- 1875
Scene depicted
This painting by Edgar Degas reveals an intimate scene filled with palpable sweetness. Lucie, absorbed in her world, illustrates the grace of youth while the uncle, benevolent, looks at her with admiration. The light, which gently caresses their faces, highlights the innocence and tenderness of a shared moment. This pictorial work , far from being a simple portrait, becomes a visual narrative of family love, a light breeze on a Parisian summer.
Historical context
Created in 1875, this painting emblematic finds its roots in the vibrant heart of Paris, a city that was the cradle of the Impressionist movement. In a Parisian setting where art overflows and transforms, this painting illustrates the sweetness of family ties, frozen in a moment of complicity. Evolving in the artistic milieu of the 19th century, this work is part of the invaluable legacy of Edgar Degas , whose genius is expressed through every brushstroke.
Place in the artist's career
Henri Degas and his niece Lucie Degas (the uncle and the cousin of the artist) is situated at a turning point in Edgar Degas 's career. In the midst of exploring his style, he imposes himself with compositions marked by poignant realism . Alongside *The Dance Class* and *The Dancers*, this work demonstrates his evolution towards a more intimate understanding of his subjects, revealing a sensitivity that sees beyond the simple portrait.
Anecdote
Edgar Degas , often in search of authenticity, declared, “Painting is a daydream while remaining alert to the world around us.” It was while sketching on a canvas that day that the painting of his niece Lucie came to life; a sunny day, rocked by the song of birds and the scent of spring flowers, his heart beating to capture an eternal connection on the canvas .