5: MARC CHAGALL (1887-1985) PENCIL SIGNED PRINTS

Marc (Moishe Shagal) Chagall (Russian, 1887-1985)

1. La Revolution (1963)

The lithograph in colors printed by Charles Sorlier on wove paper in an edition of 150 prints is signed by the artist in pencil lower right and designated as an artist's proof lower left.

Chagall's compositions typically are filled with a cacophony of figures and allegories, some populate numerous works. Here the symbols include Vladimir Lenin balanced on one hand dividing the image in two and moving from one period to the next directing masses in red on the left to the Russian flag and a better future on the right of the image. All this is observed and recorded by an artist, Chagall at his easel upper right, despite all he witnessed in Russia's 1917 Revolution and then the antisemitism he experienced in Europe.

2. Proclamation of David (1956)

The etching heightened with watercolors by hand, presumably on Arches paper, is signed by Chagall in pencil lower right and numbered 64 from the edition of only 100 prints lower left.

Hand signed and hand colored etchings by Marc Chagall are rare. This image of David on horseback is from the artist's monumental series to illustrate the Bible, undertaken beginning in 1931. Like Dali with his series The Divine Comedy, this project, originally initiated by art dealer Ambroise Vollard and ultimately published by Chagall's good friend Tériade, consumed decades of Chagall's output. His interpretations of biblical tales for La Bible are charmingly imbued with his own unique emotions and thoughts.
La Revolution image measures 21.25 x 18.25 with a framed size of 43.25 x 37.5 inches. Proclamation measures 12 x 9.5, sheet is 15 x 12, with a framed size of 22 x 19 inches.
La Revolution full untrimmed sheet, not laid down, no damage, stain, puncture or repair as shown here outside the frame and mat. Proclamation full sheet without actual damage, repair or puncture is laid to cardstock and dark toning surrounds the image as shown here outside the framing, along with some toning along the top edge and paper with adhesive residue along the top as well.
$800 - $1,200
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