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Identification and Creation

Object Number
2008.109
People
Marcellin Gilbert Desboutin, French (1822 - 1902)
Title
Portrait of Hilaire Germain Edgar Degas (1834-1917)
Classification
Prints
Work Type
print
Date
1876
Culture
French
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/30679

Physical Descriptions

Technique
Drypoint
Dimensions
plate: 9 x 7.1 cm (3 9/16 x 2 13/16 in.)
Inscriptions and Marks
  • Signed: M Desboutin
  • incipit: lower margin below right plate corner, graphite, hand written, in artist's hand: signature: M. Desboutin
  • inscription: lower left corner of sheet, graphite, hand written: identification of subject: portrait de Degas

State, Edition, Standard Reference Number

Standard Reference Number
C.-J. 61

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Fogg Museum, Gift of James A. Bergquist, Boston, in honor of Marjorie B. Cohn's retirement
Accession Year
2008
Object Number
2008.109
Division
European and American Art
Contact
am_europeanamerican@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Commentary
Desboutin was one of Degas's close friends, whom he painted in his famous genre tableau of an apparent toper and prostitute at a Parisian cafe. In fact, Desboutin and the woman in the painting, another friend of Degas, were simply models for the artist, not disreputable habitués. Just as Degas often painted and drew, and occasionally etched, portraits of his friends, so also did Desboutin, making two drypoints of Degas. (The other is a full-length sketch.) He also rendered their mutual friend Nina de Callas in drypoint.

Verification Level

This record has been reviewed by the curatorial staff but may be incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. For more information please contact the Division of European and American Art at am_europeanamerican@harvard.edu