In excellent condition, with fresh, brilliant colors, printed on a sheet with full margins. In 1980 the publisher Aime Maeght decided to ask Chagall to make a few large scale lithographs. The request was very broad in nature, Maeght specifying neither a specific size nor theme for the group. The subject matter was left completely to Chagall. Initially Chagall was a bit reticent, but his desire to please Aime Maeght spurred him on. Once Chagall grasped the project he became completely absorbed in it, ultimately going far beyond the scope of Maeght's request. Chagall asked Charles Sorlier for the largest dimensions that he presses were capable of printed and proceeded from there. In the end, the project encompassed fourteen large graceful and poetic lithographs, thirteen of which were printed in vibrant pastel tones, one was printed in black only 'La Joie' is one of the finest and most desirable of the color lithographs from this group.

Hand signed in pencil lower right Marc Chagall.

A superb artist's proof impression, apart from the numbered edition of 50, annotated 'Epreuve d'artiste.' in pencil lower left. Published by Maeght Editeur, Paris; printed by Charles Sorlier at Atelier Fernand Mourlot, Paris.

Mourlot 972

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