marc chagall paris opera ceiling lithograph

The opening ceremony for the new ceiling of the Opera was arranged under the supervision of André Malraux and took place on the evening of September 23, 1964. Thus once again Chagall demonstrated the humility and integrity which were characteristic of the man and a hallmark of all the work which he undertook….Ĭhagall worked from January to July, 1964, to complete this painting. When he went to work, he started by executing a number of small sketches before he created two large dummies, which he submitted to André Malraux so that he could select one. The artist hesitated for a long time before finally accepting the assignment. The decoration for the ceiling of the Paris Opera by Chagall was commissioned by André Malraux, then the Cabinet Minister in charge of the Cultural Affairs. The lovers appear again encircled by the light of the moon in the upper right-hand corner, possibly symbolizing their eternal unity and undying love.Įxcerpt from Charles Sorlier's Chagall's Posters, Catalogue Raisonne: The great monuments of Paris function as a backdrop for the timeless love of Romeo and Juliet how appear floating through the sky.

Combining images of Paris, the figures of Romeo and Juliet and signature elements such as the horse and bouquet of flowers, Chagall captures a sense of romance and history.

Marc Chagall Romeo and Juliette (Romeo and Juliet), 1964 is particularly remarkable due to its impressive size and superb color quality.

Marc chagall paris opera ceiling lithograph