The Swan and the Cook 1927 - 1930

"The Swan and the Cook" is an etching created by Marc Chagall between 1927 and 1930. It depicts a cook holding a knife, about to slaughter a swan. The scene is characterized by Chagall's signature style, incorporating dreamlike elements and symbolic imagery. The use of thick, black lines and the swirling background create a sense of unease and tension, reflecting the complex relationship between humans and animals, as well as the inherent brutality of life. Chagall's work often draws inspiration from his Jewish heritage and the folklore of his native Vitebsk, Russia, and "The Swan and the Cook" is no exception, highlighting the themes of sacrifice and the cyclical nature of life and death.