Edgar Degas (1834–1917) was a French Impressionist painter and sculptor, renowned for his depictions of the ballet, horse racing, and everyday life in late 19th-century Paris. Born in Paris, Degas initially trained in academic art before embracing the Impressionist movement. His innovative compositions and keen observations of movement and light, seen in works like "The Dance Class" (1874), marked him as a master of capturing transient moments. While best known for his paintings, Degas also made significant contributions to sculpture, notably his series of bronze dancers. His work often blurred the boundaries between traditional genres, infusing everyday scenes with a sense of dynamism and intimacy. Degas's lasting impact on Impressionism and his role in redefining modern art continue to be celebrated worldwide.