Le Verger (Mourlot Charles Sorlier 44)

Created in 1973, Le Verger is the result of Marc Chagall's collaboration with master printmaker Charles Sorlier at the Mourlot atelier. The title of this work translates as 'The Orchard' and portrays a couple reclining in a lush, green field. Chagall and Sorlier began working together in 1950, when Sorlier introduced him to colour lithography. Over time, Chagall entrusted Sorlier to produce interpretive lithographs of his paintings, blending Chagall's imaginative world with Sorlier's technical mastery.
Le Verger is rich in symbolism and draws from Chagall's 1950s illustrations of the Greek poet Longus' tale of Daphnis and Chloé. The story follows two orphans who fall in love, and after overcoming trials of separation and kidnapping, discover their noble origins, and are joyfully reunited. In this work, Chagall's whimsical rendition of Longus' romantic adventure is heightened by his expressive use of colour, illustrating his ability translate narratives through striking visuals.

Lithograph in colours, 1973, signed and inscribed 'E.A.' in pencil, an artist's proof aside from the edition of 100, published by Mourlot, Paris, on Arches paper, with full margins, sheet 63.9 x 54.8 cm (25¼ x 21½ in.)