The artwork “Elijah is taken to heaven,” created by Marc Chagall in 1956 in France, is a lithograph on paper that falls within the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. This religious painting measures 40 x 26.5 cm and exemplifies Chagall’s unique style and his interpretation of biblical themes.
The artwork depicts the biblical event of the prophet Elijah being taken up to heaven. It showcases Chagall’s distinctively stylized figures, with broad, sweeping lines that convey movement and a certain fluidity. The central figure, presumably Elijah, is shown with outstretched arms, appearing to be in awe or possibly surrender to the divine event transpiring. Above him, there are abstract representations that may symbolize heavenly beings or creatures, possibly the horses of fire mentioned in the biblical account, abstracted to their essential forms. The use of space and the economy of lines in this lithograph suggest the whirlwind described in the Scriptures, indicating the tumultuous and miraculous nature of Elijah’s ascension. Chagall’s signature can be seen on the lower right, signifying the authenticity of the work.
