Description:Executed in his signature style, Chagall creates Le Faisan in a subtle, yet powerful way, allowing its colors to come alive just beneath the various strokes of black. Its inherent symbolism creates a mysterious depth to composition of a pheasant in an everyday, secular scene.
Created in 1966, this piece was created out of an edition of 50 signed and numbered proofs on Vélin d'Arches paper (there were also a few artist's proofs) .
Referencing a still life subject seen in several paintings of the Renaissance and Baroque era, Chagall takes an artistic and modern twist on this symbol of wealth and abundance. This pheasant placed within a table setting accompanied by a vase of flowers, a bottle of wine, and a bowl of fruit is meant to signify an upcoming feast in which a great fowl is presented to all in the dining party. Spectators in the background look on eagerly as having any type of game as part of a meal suggests prosperity and affluence. It is interesting to note that Chagall himself was very poor as a child growing up in late 19th century Russia, therefore this subject matter becomes poignant and personal to him as he grew to appreciate feasts such as the one pictured here with Le Faisan.
Catalogue Raisonné & COA:
It is fully documented and referenced in (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that I will accompany the final sale of the work) :
1) Gauss, Ulrike, ed. Marc Chagall: The Lithographs, La Collection Sorlier. Listed and illustrated on pg. 203 as cat. no. 441a.
2) Mourlot, Fernand. The Lithographs of Chagall vol. III, 1962-1968. Listed and illustrated on pg. 91 as cat. 441a.
About the Framing:
Custom framed in a beautiful and elegant Spanish-style moulding, Le Faisan is bordered by white, linen-wrapped mats with a matching gold inner fillet. The delicate, organic features of the frame serve to accent the stroke of Chagall's unique artistry and also helps bring out the lighter tones and hues of the work. Set behind a Plexiglass cover, all materials are archival to ensure lasting quality and conservational needs.
