Marc Chagall - L'Écuyère au Cheval Roux (The Rider on the Red Horse)

This artwork is a color lithograph attributed to the renowned Modernist artist Marc Chagall, likely dating from the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1960s). The composition features Chagall's signature dreamlike, surrealist style, depicting a female equestrian or rider floating above a large, vibrant red horse. The work is executed on paper with a soft, matte finish, utilizing a palette of primary reds and blues alongside muted earth tones. Notable physical characteristics include bold, expressive black line work that defines the figures, complemented by wash-like applications of color that bleed into the surrounding space. The piece is signed 'Marc Chagall' in the lower left corner, appearing as part of the lithographic plate rather than a hand-pencil signature. The artwork is housed in a multi-layered cream-colored mat within a simple frame. Regarding condition, there is visible yellowing and light foxing consistent with age on the matting and the edges of the paper, though the central pigment remains relatively vibrant. The craftsmanship displays the fluid, lyrical quality characteristic of the Mourlot Studios lithography associated with Chagall. The floating figures and whimsical subject matter are classic indicators of the artist's thematic focus on the circus and folklore.

I have virtually examined the color lithograph titled 'L’Écuyère au Cheval Roux' attributed to Marc Chagall. The piece exhibits the lyrical draftsmanship and vibrant palette characteristic of the Mourlot Studios prints from the 1950s-1960s. The presence of the signature within the lithographic stone, rather than a hand-pencil signature, indicates this is likely from a large edition or a contemporary art periodical like Verve or Derrière le Miroir, which significantly affects rarity and value compared to limited, hand-signed proofs. Regarding condition, I noted visible foxing and oxidation (yellowing) on the matting and paper edges. This suggests exposure to acidity and fluctuating humidity, which can deteriorate paper fibers over time and negatively impact the valuation. Market demand for Chagall’s circus motifs remains consistently strong among collectors due to their iconic status in Modernist history. Comparables for unsigned lithographs of this scale typically trade in the $800–$2,000 range depending on the specific edition and state of preservation. It is critical to note that a definitive attribution cannot be made from digital images alone. An in-person inspection is required to verify the paper’s watermark (such as Arches or Rives), measure the exact dimensions, and check for a 'hinge' rather than destructive adhesive mounting. Full authentication would require a provenance check to identify the specific catalogue raisonné number (e.g., Mourlot) and, if the value were higher, a certificate from the Comité Marc Chagall. For now, the value reflects a high-quality decorative lithograph with moderate condition issues.