Edgar Degas signed his artworks eponymously with his last name Degas. He typically signed only when his artwork was leaving the studio for sale. For many of these works, he used a stamp. Given that he was always reluctant to part with his art and that many never-before-seen artworks were discovered in his residence upon his death, a substantial number of original Degas artworks are unsigned. A few Degas originals were also signed on his behalf by dealers, but such signatures must be considered very dubiously. Regardless, a signature is never the only grounds by which a painting can be authenticated, and even when it does appear to be authentic, can only be considered as a secondary supporting factor—given the proliferation of quality forgery. Painted signatures or drawn autographs were more common earlier in Degas' career but still occurred with frequency, particularly on sketches and paintings of dancers, due to their popularity. Below are several examples of various appearances where the artist signed by charcoal, pencil, or paintbrush.
Many of Edgar Degas' drawings, prints, and even some paintings feature a stamp of his studio or estate. In his earliest years, he used a black "Atélier Degas" stamp. The frequently seen "Degas" stamp in red ink was used by his estate. Works featuring this stamp were in the artist's residence upon his passing.
Degas Experts can determine if your drawing or painting bears an authentic Degas signature. Please contact us for more information.
Examination - We examine artworks at your residence, your office, your bank, your attorney’s office, your art storage facility or at your hotel if you are traveling. At any art gallery or auctioneer. At any Government Agency office, at any Customs Port of Entry, at any Law Enforcement office or warehouse. In any place of worship or religious congregation building. In the premises of any organization, association, or club. At any library, college, or museum. At any conservator studio or laboratory. For insurance and liability reasons, we don’t receive or examine artworks at our locations.