In The Dance Lesson, how is the Description discussed?
The painting is the first of a series of about 40 pictures that Degas painted in this horizontal, frieze-like format. It measures 38 by 88 centimetres (15 in × 35 in).To the far left is a double bass with an exhausted dancer wearing a bright orange shawl sitting on it.  There was also an open violin-case, which although painted out, is still visible. In the centre of the painting is a dancer in a pink shawl sitting on a chair with another dancer, turned away, standing just behind her adjusting the dark coloured sash of her dress. To the far right, at the back of the room, is a group of dancers practising their moves in the light from a large window.The painting was carefully composed and shows the inspiration Degas drew from Japanese prints, with figures deliberately placed off-centre or cut off at unexpected angles and the large expanse of floor which appears to tilt upwards.
Japanese prints violin double bass