“Notre-Dame in gray,” created by Marc Chagall in 1955 in France, is an artwork rendered through lithography on paper, measuring 74 by 60.8 centimeters. This piece falls within the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and is classified under the genre of cityscape.
The artwork presents a monochromatic depiction of the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, characterized by a palette dominated by shades of gray. The lithographic technique used by Chagall enhances the architectural features through intricate and expressive lines. On the right side of the artwork, a delicate and almost ethereal depiction of a mother and child is integrated within the composition, adding a human element to the urban landscape. The cathedral’s imposing presence is softened by the gentle curves and the somber yet tender mood of the mother and child, suggesting themes of sanctuary and serenity amidst the grandeur and solemnity of the historic structure. The overall composition conveys a blend of architectural solidity and human vulnerability, encapsulated in Chagall’s unique and emotive artistic style.
