Before the Start

"Before the Start" by Edgar Degas, painted in 1878, is a compelling example of genre painting that captures the tense moment just before a horse race begins. Executed in oil on canvas, the artwork reflects Degas's interest in movement and everyday scenes, aligning with Impressionism principles. The composition, with the starting post bisecting the scene, shows influences from Japanese art, which impacted European painting and design after the Perry Expedition, emphasizing a modern interest in framing and perspective.