August 1 through November 27, 2005
Arthur M. Sackler Museum (more about the Sackler)

Hilaire-Germain-Edgar Degas (1834–1917), Singer with a Glove, c. 1878. Pastel on canvas, 52.9 x 41.1 cm. Fogg Art Museum, Harvard University Art Museums, Bequest from the Collection of Maurice Wertheim, Class of 1906, 1951.68. Photo: Allan Macintyre, HUAM, © President and Fellows of Harvard College.

In 1911, the Fogg was the first museum to mount an exhibition of works by Hilaire-Germain-Edgar Degas (1834–1917). That pivotal show of 12 paintings proved to be the only one-man museum exhibition the artist received during his lifetime, and it remains defining moment in the remarkable relationship that has existed ever since between the work of Degas and the Fogg, its staff, and students at the University.

Today, Harvard’s holdings of works by Degas, recognized as one of the largest and most important in the United States, play a key role in our teaching and research missions. For the first time, Degas at Harvard unites works by the artist from across the University’s collections, including those at the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection in Washington, DC, and the Houghton Library, in order to examine and present this rich body of paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and photographs.

An illustrated catalogue of all works by Degas in Harvard’s collections will accompany the exhibition.

Organized by Edward Saywell, Charles C. Cunningham Sr. Curatorial Associate in Drawings, and Stephan Wolohojian, curator of paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. Funded by Mariot K. Solomon, Manson Benedict, and the Edward A. Waters Publication Fund in the Andrew W. Mellon Publication Funds.

Degas at Harvard - This searchable web site is offered as an introduction to the holdings of works of art by Hilaire-Germain-Edgar Degas in the collections of Harvard University. It also acts as a record of of the exhibition, Degas at Harvard, at the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Harvard University Art Museums, August 1 ­ November 27, 2005.

Due to popular demand we are extending hours of operation for the Degas at Harvard exhibition only. Beginning Aug. 18 the exhibition will be open until 8 p.m. each Thursday through closing Nov. 27. Admission fees still apply.
Because of strict limitations on the number of visitors allowed in the Degas exhibition at any one time, timed entry may become necessary during peak viewing hours.

Press Release