The artwork titled “Tchitchikov and Sobakevich after Dinner,” created by the esteemed artist Marc Chagall around 1923 in Paris, France, is an etching on paper. It belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and measures 21 x 27.5 cm. This piece is part of the “Dead Souls” series and is housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia. The genre of this artwork is classified as an illustration.
The artwork depicts two central figures, one of whom appears to be reclining in a state of contentment or lethargy, likely post-dinner, inferred by the title. His posture and closed eyes suggest a sense of fullness or relaxation. The other figure is markedly more animated, gesturing with his hands as if engaged in an enthusiastic conversation or reaction. The scene is rendered in a monochromatic palette, typical of etchings, bringing a stark contrast to the figures and their surroundings. The expressive lines and somewhat exaggerated features are characteristic of Chagall’s unique style, capturing a moment of interaction that is both ordinary and imbued with a whimsical quality.
