The Riders by Degas

Crossing a green landscape bathed in a soft atmospheric light, this work by Degas Edgar, linked to the Impressionist movement, stands under the title of “The Riders” at the heart of his equestrian production. The artist abandons the hustle and bustle of the starting line here to paint a peaceful moment of transition in the middle of the countryside. The painter captures the tranquil harmony between man, animal, and nature.

The composition unfolds on a large green meadow where several jockeys in colorful silk jackets make their way. On the left, a jockey in a white jacket and a blue cap rides a bay horse in profile towards the right. To his right, two riders in royal blue and brown jackets follow them on their dark mounts. Further to the right, a jockey in a coral-red jacket tries to master his rearing horse, while on the far right, a rider in a black jacket and a red cap advances quietly in profile, alongside a hatted spectator walking in the distance.

This canvas bears witness to the exceptional craftsmanship of the artist in capturing the impression of continuous movement. The painter uses rapid, light and fragmented oil strokes to suggest the texture of the grass and the reflections of the sky on the brilliant jackets. The accuracy of the silhouettes and the freedom of his touch consecrate his genius.