The Wolf Pleading against the Fox before the Monkey 1927 - 1930

Marc Chagall made this monochromatic image, The Wolf Pleading against the Fox before the Monkey, with etching. The scratches and the varying tones create an interesting setting and some very expressive characters. The material aspect of this printmaking technique is so interesting; the lines create a sense of depth, with areas of cross hatching. Look at the tonal variation of the monkey as it fades into the tree. It's like he’s thinking, "What do I want to emphasize?" The monkey is a solid figure, but look at that reaching arm! It tells you so much about the story and pulls you into this scene. The way it goes to almost nothing and then becomes this very specific thing. Chagall’s work often embraces ambiguity, inviting multiple interpretations, much like Paula Rego whose art also delves into narrative scenes with an edge.