Marc Chagall – Daphnis and Chloe: The Sacrifice

Artwork Details:

• Artist: Marc Chagall (1887–1985)
• Title: The Sacrifice (Daphnis and Chloe)
• Medium: Vintage Color Lithograph
• Publisher: George Braziller
• Printed In: West Germany
• Copyright Info: Les Editions, 1961 Verve, Paris
• Published: 1977
• Dimensions: 9.25 x 12.5 inches (23.5 x 32 cm)
• Condition: Excellent
• Framing: Comes framed

Description & Artistic Significance

Marc Chagall’s The Sacrifice is part of his iconic Daphnis and Chloe series, which visually interprets Longus’s ancient Greek pastoral romance. Commissioned by Tériade for Verve Editions in 1961, these works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty, dreamlike quality, and vivid use of color.

Composition & Technique:

• Chagall’s characteristic color palette—rich blues, fiery reds, and warm yellows—imbues the scene with spiritual intensity and emotional depth.
• The expressive and fluid brushstrokes in the lithographic process capture movement and drama, a hallmark of Chagall’s storytelling.
• Figures are often depicted in floating or weightless forms, enhancing the ethereal and mythical nature of the artwork.

Symbolism & Themes:

• The Sacrifice references a pivotal moment in Daphnis and Chloe, where divine intervention and ritualistic offerings shape the destiny of the lovers.
• Chagall’s depiction of sacrifice often carries themes of spiritual transformation, devotion, and fate, aligning with his broader artistic exploration of love, mythology, and the divine.
• The juxtaposition of human and celestial elements in the scene reflects Chagall’s unique ability to blend the earthly with the mystical.

Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Chagall’s Narrative Art

As part of the Daphnis and Chloe series, The Sacrifice is an extraordinary example of Chagall’s ability to merge mythology, romance, and vibrant color into a single composition. The excellent condition and original publication provenance further enhance its artistic and collectible value.