Ukrainian Dancers
Drawing on paper • Edgar Degas (1834–1917)
Style & Movement
Impressionism / Late Degas Style
Medium & Technique
Pastel on paper, specifically dry pastels used with vigorous hatching and layering to create a sense of movement and texture.
Creation Period
circa 1899
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 73 cm x 59 cm (28 in x 23 in); Portrait format.
Subject Description
A group of dancers in traditional Ukrainian folk costumes featuring embroidered white blouses and long, colorful skirts. The composition captures them in mid-motion, emphasizing rhythmic energy and the interplay of intense oranges, yellows, and greens. It belongs to a series of pastels the artist made after being inspired by visiting troupes in Paris.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Very Good; the vibrance of the pastel pigments remains high, likely stabilized by a professional museum environment.
Estimated Market Value
$10,000,000 - $15,000,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$8,000,000 - $12,000,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely part of a major institutional collection (National Gallery, London or J. Paul Getty Museum), having originated from Degas's studio sales after his death (Atelier Degas).
Art Historical Significance
A significant departure from Degas's typical Parisian ballet subjects, this work showcases his late-career obsession with color over form and his interest in ethnographic detail. This specific series gained renewed cultural attention recently due to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, leading museums to re-label works from 'Russian Dancers' to 'Ukrainian Dancers.'
Notable Features
Bold, sketch-like lines typical of late Degas; the use of contrasting warm and cool tones; notable recent re-identification of the subject matter from Russian to Ukrainian based on the traditional floral ribbons and folk attire.
Condition Issues
Potential for minor pigment friability typical of the pastel medium; light UV fading of sensitive reds/pinks, though not currently visible.
Conservation Recommendations
Displayed under low UV-filtered lighting (maximum 50 lux), humidity-controlled environment, and archival museum-grade framing to prevent pastel dust from detaching.