Job in Despair, 1960: Marc Chagall

Marc Chagall (1887–1985)

Job in Despair, 1960

Original colour lithograph on wove paper

Published by Éditions de la Revue Verve (Vol. X, Nos. 37–38), Tériade, Paris

Printed by Mourlot, Paris (1960)

Catalogue raisonné: Mourlot 254 recto; Mourlot 277 verso

Created in 1960 for Dessins pour La Bible, the double issue (Vol. X, Nos. 37–38) of Verve published by Tériade in Paris, this original colour lithograph forms part of Marc Chagall's celebrated series of biblical images produced in collaboration with publisher Tériade and master printer Mourlot.

The Book of Job is among the most profound explorations of suffering and faith in the Hebrew Bible. Rather than illustrating the narrative through dramatic action, Chagall focuses on a single, deeply human moment. Job sits alone with his head resting upon his hand, conveying weariness, grief and quiet reflection. Behind him, a small green angel introduces a subtle note of hope amid the darkness.

Throughout his career, Chagall returned repeatedly to biblical subjects, interpreting them through a highly personal visual language shaped by memory, imagination and faith. His works often combine sacred narratives with symbolic figures and expressive colour, creating images that feel both timeless and deeply individual. Here, the story of Job becomes an intimate meditation on endurance rather than suffering alone.

As issued, the sheet also bears an original black-and-white Mourlot lithograph (Mourlot 277) printed on the reverse, reflecting the innovative publishing format of Verve, in which original lithographs were incorporated directly into the publication rather than reproduced mechanically. The work therefore survives exactly as intended when first published in Paris in 1960.

Reference: Fernand Mourlot, Chagall Lithographe II: 1957–1962, Mourlot 254 recto; Mourlot 277 verso.

Framed with Conservation Mat, Acid-free Foamboard and UV70 Art Glass

Size 47cm x 56.5cm (Framed)