Paradise (Paradis),1960: Marc Chagall

Marc Chagall (1887–1985)

Paradise (Paradis),1960 (also known as Paradise II or The Green Donkey)

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 233 recto; Mourlot 256 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. Although the catalogue raisonné records the work simply as Paradis, it is also widely known as Paradise II or The Green Donkey to distinguish it from the preceding lithograph in the series.

The composition brings together Adam and Eve with one of Chagall's most recognisable recurring motifs: the donkey. Rather than presenting the biblical narrative in a literal or dramatic manner, Chagall creates a dreamlike vision in which human figures, animals and nature coexist within an imagined world. The monumental green donkey dominates the composition, while the figures of Adam and Eve appear closely intertwined beneath its watchful gaze.

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 animals, floating figures and richly coloured landscapes, creating images that feel both timeless and deeply individual. Here, the familiar story of Eden becomes less an illustration of scripture than an evocation of paradise itself.

As issued, the sheet also bears an original black-and-white Mourlot lithograph (Mourlot 256) 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 233 recto; Mourlot 256 verso.

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

Size 54.5cm x 64.5cm (Framed)