The artwork, “Chichikov Shaves,” by Marc Chagall, created circa 1923 in Paris, France, is an etching on paper that exemplifies the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. This illustration is part of the “Dead Souls” series and is housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork portrays a surreal and whimsical scene of a man, presumably Chichikov, engaged in the mundane activity of shaving. The figures are exaggerated and distorted, characteristic of Naïve Art, creating a dream-like, almost fantastical ambiance. Chichikov is seen leaning towards a mirror, the reflection distorted, emphasizing the playful and imaginative style of Chagall. The etching medium accentuates the intricate lines and textures, imparting a moody contrast and rich depth to the piece. The presence of minimal, carefully placed objects on a table further suggests a simple yet evocative narrative, inviting viewers into Chagall’s imaginative interpretation of everyday life.
