The artwork “Striking the Rock,” created by Marc Chagall around the year 1963 in France, embodies the art movement of Naïve Art (Primitivism). Rendered in Indian ink and pencil on paper, this sketch and study piece measures 33.5 x 33 cm.
“Striking the Rock” is a monochromatic composition that portrays a significant biblical event in a simplistic yet evocative manner. The central figure, depicted with dynamic lines, appears to be striking a rock to produce water, while surrounded by a multitude of figures in varied poses, gesturing in response. The crowd, drawn with delicate strokes, conveys a sense of communal anticipation and amazement. Small animals and additional elements are interspersed throughout, enhancing the narrative depth of the sketch without overshadowing the primary scene. The artwork captures a raw, almost childlike essence, characteristic of Chagall’s intuitive and emotional approach.
