Edgar Degas was the greatest master of both modern compositions in pastels and oils. His dancers and nudes are considered the best examples of these.  At the end of Degas’ life, he became the most expensive living artist. Ambroise Vollard, the Gallerist of their time, promoted his pastels and published a portfolio of his work on arches.  Four of the prints were in full color and signed by Edgar Degas.  Because they were published during the First World War, the entire edition was not realized until 1918 when the war ended.  Only the first few portfolios bear his signatures.  Acquisitions have 2 of the 4 from the portfolio. They are both signed. The other 2 pieces were sold to private collectors.