CHAGALL, Marc (1887-1985)

CHAGALL, Marc (1887-1985)

Bible in French — Bible. Paris: Tériarde, 1965.

In these beautiful volumes Chagall illustrates the sacred text he once described as ‘the greatest source of poetry of all time\' (Bowden). Chagall’s religious beliefs are tangible throughout his works, but particularly so here; long influenced by his Jewish heritage, and later turning to the Christian faith, he in 1931 began creating his Bible illustrations upon returning from a visit to the Holy Land. Several are dedicated to familiar stories like Genesis and Exodus, however Chagall also foregrounds often neglected parables, such as that of Ruth, whose journey to Bethlehem is afforded five consecutive scenes. Foregoing traditional styles of Biblical illustration, Chagall created etchings which are visually striking and speak to his own personal spirituality. Cramer books 29.



Two volumes, folio (443 x 337mm). Number 106 of 295 copies, printed on Montvale paper, signed by the artist, with 105 etchings. Loose as issued, stiff paper wrappers, with original glassine jackets, each volume housed within its original chemise of cloth backed boards, the whole contained within grey paper covered slip case; sold in the original brown paper wrappers and cardboard box. Provenance: outer wrapper numbered 106 in crayon by publisher.