Before the Race by Degas

A passion for the equestrian world and racecourses deeply animated the work of Degas Edgar, a key painter of realism and modern life. His painting titled “Before the Race” depicts a group of jockeys gathered before the start of a race. Unlike his contemporaries who prioritized the speed of the run, the artist focused on moments of tense waiting and concentration, revealing the psychological tension of both men and mounts.

In the foreground of this grassy field, a dark bay horse lowers its head toward the ground, its jockey in a red and yellow jacket leaning forward to adjust the bridle. Around them, several riders line up on chestnut and black horses, wearing pastel pink, green, or blue polka-dot silks. The background opens onto a landscape of distant hills under a sky veiled in grey and salmon-colored clouds, suggesting the end of the day. The ground, rendered with quick strokes of green, ochre, and violet, perfectly captures the wild texture of the terrain. The tight, dynamic composition enhances the sense of immediate proximity to the restless animals.

This canvas showcases the artist’s profound understanding of equine anatomy and his superb command of oil painting. With fluid, precise brushstrokes, he successfully conveys the shimmering coats of the horses and the nervous energy of the moment. It stands as a striking testament to his realist genius.