The artwork entitled “Moses spreads death among the Egyptians” is a religious painting created by Marc Chagall in 1931 in Paris, France. This piece, which falls within the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement, is executed using gouache and oil on paper, encompassing dimensions of 62.5 x 49 cm.
The artwork vividly portrays a dramatic biblical scene where a larger-than-life depiction of Moses stands at the forefront. Moses, characterized by a prominent beard and outstretched arms, seems to be casting a divine and formidable presence. The background showcases a tumultuous sky, adding a sense of foreboding and divine intervention. Below him, a smaller group of despairing individuals and chaotic scenarios embody the affliction brought upon the Egyptians, illustrating the painting’s intense and somber theme. Chagall’s distinctive, expressive style is evident in the blending of colors and abstract forms, infusing the artwork with emotional and spiritual intensity.