Degas Little Dancer Aged Fourteen Sculpture

Degas' Iconic "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen": A Masterpiece Redefined

Edgar Degas' sculpture "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen" (French: "La Petite Danseuse de Quatorze Ans") stands as one of the most renowned and groundbreaking works in the history of sculpture. Created in 1881, this captivating piece is renowned for its exceptional realism and the unconventional materials Degas employed.

The sculpture depicts Marie van Goethem, a student at the Paris Opéra Ballet dance school. Degas, a frequent visitor to the Paris Opera House, was fascinated by the ballet dancers, who would become a central motif in his artistic oeuvre. Remarkably, the "Little Dancer" is the sole sculpture Degas publicly exhibited during his lifetime.

Crafted initially in wax, an uncommon choice at the time, the figure is adorned with a real bodice, tutu, and ballet slippers, as well as a horsehair wig tied with a satin ribbon, adding to its lifelike appearance. The figure stands in a casual, relaxed posture, yet there is a palpable sense of tension and poise reflective of a ballet dancer. This innovative blend of mixed media was revolutionary, blurring the boundaries between traditional sculpture and real-life objects.

The original wax sculpture was showcased at the Sixth Impressionist Exhibition in 1881, sparking a range of reactions. While some critics praised the work for its groundbreaking innovation and realism, others were shocked by its stark departure from the idealized classical forms prevalent in the era.

After Degas' passing in 1917, over 150 wax models were discovered in his studio. His heirs, in collaboration with the Hébrard Foundry, made the decision to have 74 of these casts, including the "Little Dancer," reproduced in bronze. These bronze versions played a crucial role in solidifying Degas' reputation as a master sculptor, allowing his three-dimensional work to reach a much wider audience.

Today, the "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen" is celebrated as a masterful fusion of artistic skill and innovation, marking a significant departure from the conventional sculpture of its time. This iconic work is held in the collections of prestigious museums worldwide, including the Musée d'Orsay in Paris and the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

Exquisite Craftsmanship: Experience the essence of Degas' masterpiece with a faithful recreation meticulously crafted by the expert sculpting team at Veronese Design. Crafted from high-quality polyresin enhanced with a cold cast bronze finish, this stunning reproduction captures the essence of the original sculpture.

Premium Quality: Each piece is uniquely adorned with hand-painted color accents, ensuring no two sculptures are exactly alike. This attention to detail adds an extra layer of depth and vibrancy to the artwork, making it a true work of art in its own right.

Gifting Idea: Whether for an art enthusiast, a dancer, or someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, this recreation of Degas' "Little Dancer" is a thoughtful and unique gift that will be cherished for years to come.

Measurement: L 3 1/8 * W 3 * H 7 1/4 Inches

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