The artwork “Purim,” created by Marc Chagall circa 1918 in Liozna, near Vitebsk, Belarus, is an oil on canvas painting. Measuring 50.5 x 71.9 cm, it belongs to the Cubism art movement and fits within the genre painting category. Currently, the artwork is housed at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
The artwork depicts a vibrant and dynamic scene, characterized by its use of bold, contrasting colors and a somewhat abstracted, Cubist style. The central figures are portrayed with exaggerated, elongated limbs and simplified forms, contributing to the piece’s whimsical and folkloric sense. The background showcases a village setting with houses and a clear, red expanse symbolizing the ground or communal space, connecting the various elements of the scene. The composition highlights the traditional celebration of Purim with figures engaged in joyous activities typical of this festive occasion. The playful and lively nature of the painting exemplifies Chagall’s characteristic blending of fantasy and reality, infused with cultural and personal symbolism.
