The artwork “Mlle. Fiocre in the Ballet ‘The Source’” was created by the artist Edgar Degas between 1867 and 1868. This oil painting on canvas exemplifies the Impressionist movement, measuring approximately 130 by 145 centimeters. It falls within the genre painting category and is currently housed at the Brooklyn Museum in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork portrays ballet dancer Mlle. Fiocre in the context of her role in the ballet “The Source.” Degas, who was known for his works depicting dancers, demonstrates his adept skill in capturing the grace and poise of the ballet. Around the central figure of the dancer, we observe additional elements that contribute to the narrative of the piece.
The dancer, presumably Mlle. Fiocre, is depicted with a delicate, ethereal presence, dressed in a ballet costume that reflects the title of the ballet, “The Source.” She is surrounded by two other figures, one standing to the left, attired in an earth-toned costume, and another seated to the right, clothed in a rich, red garment. A horse occupies the central portion of the composition, drinking from a pool of water that reflects the scene, enhancing the ballet’s theme of a natural spring, or source. The artwork is set in a rocky, cave-like environment, adding an element of fantasy and romantic backdrop to the ballet scene. Degas captures a moment of tranquility and natural beauty with loose, expressive brushwork characteristic of the Impressionist style, focused on the effects of light and atmosphere.
