MARC CHAGALL

Das Geschenk (K. 96; C. 16)

Details

MARC CHAGALL
Das Geschenk (K. 96; C. 16)
etching with hand-coloring in watercolor and gouache, 1944-5, on stiff wove paper, the colors very fresh, third (final) state, signed in pencil, inscribed 'Plate XXXV' on the reverse, from the edition of 30 hand-colored impressions (there was also the earlier edition of 20 without hand-coloring), with full margins, some very pale staining at the margin edges, otherwise in very good condition
P. 9 7/8 x 7 3/8in. (250 x 188mm.)

Provenance

Gift from the artist to Catherine Viviano
By descent to the present owner

Lot Essay

This fine etching, exemplifying Marc Chagall's sensitive use of color, comes from the collection of the late Catherine Viviano. Ms. Viviano was an important figure in the New York art world for over 40 years, working first at the Pierre Matisse Gallery and then opening her own gallery in 1950. For 20 years she represented emerging Italian artists and the Estate of Max Beckmann; even after closing the gallery, she continued as a private dealer and consultant.

Das Geschenk, German for 'gift,' was just that to Ms. Viviano, having received the etching from the artist during her tenure at the Pierre Matisse Gallery. Expressed through the tender exchange of a bouquet of flowers, and specially hand-colored for Ms. Viviano, this important image is a testament to their friendship.