The artwork titled “Make an attempt, second version” was created by the artist Edgar Degas in the period from 1876 to 1877. Belonging to the Impressionism movement, this piece stands as a sketch and study, showcasing the exploratory nature inherent to Degas’ artistic process. Impressionism, a revolutionary art movement of the time, is known for its focus on capturing the ephemeral aspects of light and life, often with a particular interest in scenes of modernity and leisure.
Upon examination, the artwork reveals a series of figures which are depicted with a softness and lack of intense detail that is characteristic of a sketch. The figures appear to be female, with the composition closely framing them in an intimate setting. They are seated, and the lines used to outline their forms are loose and gestural, suggesting movement and a fleeting moment captured by the artist’s hand. The hints of shading provide a sense of volume and form to the bodies, yet preserve the air of a work in progress. The brushwork, light and shadow play, along with the positioning of the figures, contribute to the overall impressionistic qualities of the artwork, capturing a moment in time with a sense of immediacy and spontaneity.
