The artwork titled “Uncle Mitiai & Uncle Miniai” was created by Marc Chagall around 1923 in Paris, France. This piece, an etching on paper, belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and measures 27.8 x 21.6 cm. Classified as an illustration within the series “Dead Souls,” it is currently housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork depicts two figures, presumably Uncle Mitiai and Uncle Miniai, rendered in an illustrative style characteristic of Chagall’s approach. The central figure is shown from behind, cloaked in a textured garment, riding what appears to be a fantastical creature, while a secondary figure is partially visible, contributing a dynamic interaction between the characters. The line work and the composition reflect Chagall’s unique blend of whimsy and sophistication, highlighting the naïve aesthetic that simplifies forms while imbuing them with expressive detail. The etching technique, relying on strong contrasts and textured nuances, serves to amplify the emotional depth and narrative quality of the scene, consistent with the themes explored in the “Dead Souls” series. The artwork’s placement in the prestigious Tretyakov Gallery underscores its cultural and historical significance.
