Yellow Dancers (In the Wings)

Edgar Degas

1874–76

Oil on canvas

Art Institute of Chicago

Three ballerinas in yellow leotards and tutus huddle together near a painted screen. Three ballerinas in yellow leotards and tutus huddle together near a painted screen. Three light-skinned, dark-haired ballerinas, painted in muted tones, wear off-the-shoulder yellow leotards and tutus as they huddle near each other. One adjusts her costume, while one holds her hands clasped above her head. At left is a painted screen with four pairs of feet visible underneath. Edgar Degas explored the ephemeral nature of performance and the lives of dancers, often capturing them in unguarded moments backstage. This oil on canvas likely reflects his interest in capturing movement and the intimate, less glamorous side of the ballet world.