Answer:
Japonisme is the influence of Japanese aesthetics and art on Western art and culture, particularly in the late 19th century. It is characterized by a focus on minimalism, simplicity, and asymmetry, as well as an emphasis on the use of line and color.
The composition of Degas’ The Rehearsal on Stage shows the influence of Japonisme in several ways. Firstly, the painting is characterized by an asymmetrical composition, with the dancers arranged in an off-kilter formation. This asymmetry is a key characteristic of the Japonisme aesthetic. Additionally, the painting is dominated by flat colors, with few details or textures. This minimalism is another key element of Japonisme. Lastly, the painting features a strong use of line, with the dancers’ limbs and the lines of the theater walls creating a dynamic sense of movement. This focus on line is another key element of Japonisme. All of these elements demonstrate the influence of Japonisme on The Rehearsal on Stage.