The artwork titled “Abraham and Sarah” was created by Marc Chagall in 1956 in France. It is an etching on paper measuring 37 x 27 cm and belongs to the “Bible lithographs” series. The style of the artwork is associated with Naïve Art, specifically Primitivism. The genre of the work is religious painting, and it reflects the artist’s interpretation of a biblical theme.
In the artwork, one can observe the representation of the biblical figures Abraham and Sarah. The figures are depicted with a sense of spontaneity and emotion characteristic of Chagall’s style, embodying the spirit of Naïve Art with its focus on a child-like perspective and vivid imagination. The etching features expressive lines and a restrained color palette, evoking the essence of the subjects without strict adherence to realistic portrayal. The composition may allude to themes of faith, promise, and the prophetic stories associated with Abraham and Sarah from the Hebrew Bible.
Chagall’s use of etching for this work permits a sense of intimacy and intricate detail while allowing for the distinctive textural qualities inherent in this medium. The simplicity of form combined with the depth of religious and historical narrative exemplifies Chagall’s ability to convey profound stories through visual art. Through these artistic choices, “Abraham and Sarah” contributes to the wider collection of Chagall’s Bible lithographs, offering viewers a poignant glimpse into the spirituality and folklore that frequently inspired his artwork.
