“The Dance of Myriam,” created by Marc Chagall in 1966 in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France, is a compelling piece of Naïve Art (Primitivism). This religious painting, rendered using a mixture of gouache, pastel, pencil, and watercolor on paper, measures 44.3 by 32 cm.
The artwork depicts an ethereal scene infused with vibrant colors and dynamic forms. Central to the painting is a graceful female figure, presumably Myriam, who appears to be dancing with a sense of joy and spiritual abandon. Surrounding her are three other female figures, each engaged in the dance, their movements fluid and harmonious. The background, a vivid blend of greens and yellows, is animated by delicate details such as flowers, birds, and other symbolic elements. The artist’s characteristic whimsical style is evident, harmonizing playful imagery with profound religious themes.