Final answer:
Louise Weber, known as La Goulue, was celebrated as the 'queen of the dance' for her performances at the Moulin Rouge, being a central figure in the popularity of the can-can dance. Artists like Toulouse-Lautrec depicted her and the exhilarating atmosphere of the cabaret in their artwork. Degas also focused on the art of dance in his work, emphasizing form and movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The expression "hailed as the queen of the dance" refers to the recognition given to Louise Weber, better known as La Goulue, a star can-can dancer at the Moulin Rouge. Her captivating performances earned her the title "Queen of Montmartre", and her stage nickname "La Goulue", which means "The Glutton", originated from her quirky habit of sipping on patrons' drinks while dancing amongst the tables. The can-can was a provocative dance of the era, known for its high kicks and the ruffles of undergarments it revealed, considered scandalous in the conservative 19th century.
Artists like Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized her in their works, which showcased the vibrant setting and eccentric characters of the Moulin Rouge. Toulouse-Lautrec, for instance, emphasized Moulin Rouge and the event title by repeating them in his posters, while using a color palette that reflected the boldness of the performances. Degas, another famous artist, was interested in capturing the form of dancers, as seen in his iconic images where the focus is on the body and its positions rather than the individual's identity.