The artwork titled “David with Bathsheba,” created by Marc Chagall in 1980 in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France, is a lithography on paper with dimensions measuring 52 x 33.5 cm. This religious painting, belonging to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement, exhibits Chagall’s distinctive style and whimsical approach to biblical themes.
The artwork portrays King David and Bathsheba in a scene rich with symbolism and vibrant colors. David, depicted in a regal pose, is adorned in a red robe and a crown, holding what appears to be a large harp or musical instrument, signifying his identity as a musician and revered biblical figure. Bathsheba is portrayed with a crown, draped in green and yellow tones, likely indicating her royal status. The background features an ethereal tree and a bright, radiant sun, contributing to the mystical and dreamlike ambiance of the composition. Small animals, including a dog, augment the narrative and add to the painting’s liveliness. The naive, almost childlike quality of the figures and the surrounding elements is characteristic of Chagall’s style within the Naïve Art movement, emphasizing the folkloric and narrative elements of this religious tale.
