The present lot is a rare proof extensively hand-coloured by the artist in pastel and gives a fascinating insight into the artist's creative process. The master printer Charles Sorlier, with whom Chagall collaborated at the legendary Imprimerie Mourlot from the early 1950s until his death in 1985, described the artist’s method in making lithographs as follows:
“Chagall normally begins the process of producing a lithograph by drawing a composition in black on stone, zinc or transfer paper…The black is nearly always the complete skeleton of the work. After printing some proofs, he adds colour, in watercolour or pastel, thus permitting himself a choice between several versions. The maquette established, Chagall then executes the principal plates. Next he and I do our colour tests at the printing press, tests which are subsequently submitted to him. He nearly always goes over them again, correcting them and adding other tones. New trial proofs are usually necessary before the definitive adjustments. Only when he finds the proof entirely to his satisfaction does he sign the order to print [the edition]." (C. Sorlier, Chagall Lithographs, 1974-79, Monte Carlo, 1984, p. 12).
Related Articles
Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.
More from
Marc Chagall, Colour of Life: Prints and Artist's Books Formerly from the Artist's Estate
You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
In addition to the catalogue description:
- the colours very fresh. - with some pencil annotations in pencil verso.
Otherwise in very good condition.
Print Report
Cost calculator
Lot 11Sale 21556
Le jardin de Pomone (autour de Sur la Terre des Dieux)MARC CHAGALL (1887-1985)Estimate: GBP 20,000 - 30,000
Enter your bid amount for an estimated cost
Bid amount
Please enter numbers onlyAmount must be higher than the starting bidAmount must be higher than the current bid