The artwork titled “Newspaper Seller” is a portrait by Marc Chagall, created in 1914 in Liozna, near Vitebsk, Belarus. This piece, rendered in oil and paper, belongs to the Expressionism art movement and measures 98 x 78.5 cm. It is currently housed in a private collection.
In the artwork, a solemn newspaper seller stands in the foreground, his posture slightly hunched and his expression melancholic. The man’s face is accentuated with Chagall’s distinctive style, featuring a large, expressive beard and contemplative eyes. He dons a light-colored cap and a coat, with numerous newspapers folded and tucked into his satchel, signifying his trade. The background showcases an abstract, stylized cityscape under a vivid red sky, with dark buildings and narrow streets stretching towards the horizon. The stark contrast between the fiery sky and the darker tones of the city provides a dramatic backdrop, highlighting the emotional depth and intensity characteristic of Expressionist art. The artwork conveys a poignant portrayal of everyday life, infused with Chagall’s unique, emotive flair.
