The artwork “David’s victory over Goliath (I Samuel, XVII, 48, 51)” was created by Marc Chagall around 1956 in France. This etching on paper, measuring 28 x 23.4 cm, belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and is classified as a religious painting. It is part of the series “Etchings for the Bible,” a project that spanned from 1930 to 1939 and from 1952 to 1956.
The artwork depicts the biblical moment of David’s triumph over Goliath. Rendered in Chagall’s distinctive style, the etching employs simple and expressive lines to capture the essence of the narrative. David, clad in rudimentary armor, stands poised with a sword, his gaze directed thoughtfully beyond the immediate scene, suggesting contemplation of his victory and its significance. The fallen Goliath lies in a subdued state at David’s feet, his presence subdued by the dominating figure of the triumphant David. The lack of intricate detail and focus on form and movement are characteristic of Naïve Art, underscoring the emotional and spiritual themes rather than realistic representation.
