Job Praying, 1960: Marc Chagall

Marc Chagall (1887–1985)

Job Praying, 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 253 recto; Mourlot 276 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.

Job is shown lifting his gaze towards heaven after enduring immense suffering. Rather than dwelling on hardship itself, Chagall presents a moment of quiet faith, hope and spiritual renewal. The upward gaze, radiant angel and restrained composition create an image of trust that balances the suffering described elsewhere in the Book of Job.

Throughout his career, Chagall returned repeatedly to biblical subjects, interpreting them through a deeply personal visual language shaped by memory, imagination and faith. His works unite narrative with emotional intimacy, allowing ancient stories to speak with remarkable humanity. Here, the familiar account of Job becomes a timeless meditation on perseverance, compassion and hope.

As issued, the sheet also bears an original black-and-white Mourlot lithograph (Mourlot 276) 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 253 recto; Mourlot 276 verso.

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

Size 47cm x 56.5cm (Framed)