“The Rooster” by Marc Chagall is a symbolic painting created in 1929 during the artist’s time in Paris, France. This oil on canvas artwork, measuring 81 by 65 cm, falls within the Surrealism movement. The piece is currently housed in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, Spain.
The artwork showcases Chagall’s penchant for vivid, dream-like imagery, intertwining reality with fantasy. A central figure, the rooster, is portrayed with a sense of anthropomorphism, merging human attributes and emotions with the creature’s avian form. The use of bold, contrasting colors, such as the brilliant red of the rooster’s lower body against the more muted background, emphasizes the dreamlike quality that Chagall is known for. The background appears almost hazy, dotted with foliage and blending blues and greens, providing a sense of depth and mystery. The playful yet contemplative nature of the rooster, which often symbolizes awakening and fertility in various cultures, may reflect the artist’s exploration of personal identity and his connection to his heritage. The surreal composition invites viewers to unravel its symbolism and to immerse themselves in the whimsical world Chagall has created.