Edgar Degas was a French Impressionist artist known for his innovative depictions of modern life, particularly his scenes of Parisian ballet dancers and cafés. Born in 1834, Degas was a master of several mediums, including painting, drawing, and sculpture. He was a founding member of the Impressionist movement and his works were characterized by their loose brushwork, attention to movement and light, and innovative compositions. Degas was particularly interested in capturing the grace and beauty of ballet dancers, and his works in this genre are among his most famous.

He was also a prolific artist, producing over 5,000 works over the course of his lifetime. Today, Degas' works continue to be celebrated for their innovative techniques and insightful depictions of modern life, and can be found in major museums around the world.