Hand-Signed Original Lifetime Lithograph
Marc Chagall
French/Russian, 1887–1985
Vence
1954
Hand-Signed & Dedicated in 1955
Rare Impression Before Full Text • Hand-Signed Proof in Ink
Historic Mid-Century Masterpiece
Printed by Atelier Mourlot Frères, Paris
An extraordinary, highly coveted proof before the addition of the full exhibition text (omitting the "fêtes de Pâques" wording). Belonging to the prestigious reserve of impressions set aside for the artist, this example is personally hand-signed, dated, and inscribed "Vence. 1955" by Marc Chagall in ink, distinguishing it from standard commercial poster editions.
Sheet Size: 39 × 23 in (99 × 58.5 cm)
Medium: Original color lithograph on wove paper
Signature: Hand-signed, dated, and inscribed in ink lower right by Marc Chagall ("Marc Chagall Vence. 1955."); also signed and dated in the stone (1954)
Edition: Rare unnumbered artist's proof before full text
Printer & Publisher: Printed by Mourlot, Paris; Published by the Municipality of Vence (1954)
Catalogue Raisonné Reference: Charles Sorlier, Les Affiches de Marc Chagall, Paris, p. 31, No. 3
Shipping Note: Unframed. Laid down on a protective cardboard backing board for structural support and stability; ships flat.
Condition Notes: Good vintage condition consistent with age. Exhibits light creasing and minor spotting. Laid down on cardboard backing board. There is a minor paper layer loss in the upper right corner, remaining outside and not affecting the central image composition.
Created in 1954 as a poetic tribute to Vence in the south of France, this masterwork captures Chagall's iconic symbolic figures, romantic couples, and vibrant floral motifs floating above the picturesque rooftops of Vence.
An exceptional, museum-grade acquisition for serious collectors of Marc Chagall's lithographic oeuvre and rare Paris Mourlot proofs.
Guaranteed authentic original hand-signed Marc Chagall lithograph.
Reference: Sorlier 3