The artwork, titled “Striking the Rock,” was created by Marc Chagall circa 1963 in France. This piece, executed in oil on canvas, is categorized under the art movement Naïve Art (Primitivism) and belongs to the genre of religious paintings. The dimensions of the artwork are 237 by 232 centimeters.
“Striking the Rock” depicts a biblical scene rendered in Chagall’s distinctive, Naïve Art-inspired style. The central figure, ostensibly Moses, is seen striking a rock with a staff, causing water to flow forth miraculously. Surrounding him is a multitude of figures, portrayed in an expressive and somewhat whimsical manner characteristic of Chagall’s work. The figures, including men, women, and children, are engaged in various activities related to the procurement and distribution of water. Despite the simplicity of the lines and forms, the composition conveys a sense of divine intervention and communal relief. The ethereal quality of the scene, combined with Chagall’s unique artistic approach, imbues the painting with both spiritual significance and a sense of timeless wonder.
