The artwork “Miss La La at the Cirque Fernando” was created by the artist Edgar Degas in 1879. It is an oil on canvas medium, exhibiting the qualities of the Impressionism movement. The piece measures 177 cm by 77 cm and is classified as a genre painting. Currently, it is housed at the National Gallery in London, United Kingdom.
The artwork depicts the performer Miss La La, suspended high in the air at the Cirque Fernando, an entertainment venue popular during the 19th century. The viewpoint is from below, looking up towards the circus dome, creating a dramatic perspective. Miss La La’s body is caught in a dynamic pose, appearing powerful yet elegant as she performs her act. Degas effectively captures a moment of tension and grace, utilizing the distinctive soft brush strokes and keen interest in movement and light that are characteristic of the Impressionist style. The painting is dominated by warm, earthy tones and the architectural elements of the circus, such as the solid beams and the decorative details of the building, are rendered with a meticulous attention to structure and form, contrasting with the fluidity of Miss La La’s figure. Degas’s choice to include the intricate details of the circus interior hints at his interest in everyday life and modern entertainment, providing not only a portrait of the performer but also a glimpse into the Parisian social scene of the time.
