L'Oiseau Rouge. The Red Bird. by Marc Chagall, 1887-1985

Marc Chagall, 1887-1985
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L'Oiseau Rouge. The Red Bird.

Original etching in colours. 1958. Signed in pencil by Chagall with his monogram 'M.C.' and inscribed by him as 'B' - Bon à Tirer, the unique first 'guide proof' for the edition. Proof before the edition of 163 impressions (numbered 1-153 and A-J). Printed at the studio of Frélaut, Paris 1958. Edition issued in the series: De Mauvais Sujets, 1958.
Ref: Kornfeld - Chagall Etchings no 113.

Superb rich proof impression with sparkling colours. On cream wove Arches paper. Excellent original unrestored condition; some slight ink marks etc. in the margins, as is typical of such a pre-edition proof. Full margins. Sheet: 17 3/8 x 13 1/8ins. Plate: 14 3/4 x 10 7/8ins (368x278mm).

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An extremely fine example of Chagall?s work in colour etching dating from one of his periods of most original composition in the late 1950?s. The very rich colour range - red, green, yellow, turquoise, ochre-gold etc. - is characteristic of the vibrancy of Chagall?s art at this period. Using colour etching, rather than lithography as in most of his prints, adds a quality of texture and bite to the line which enhances the richness of the colour.

The theme is the familiar fanciful composition linked to the view from Chagall?s studio window in the South of France.