1887-1985 - Marc Chagall was a Russian-born French painter and designer, distinguished for his surrealistic inventiveness. He is recognized as one of the most significant painters and graphic artists of the 20th century. His work treats subjects in a vein of humor and fantasy that draws deeply on the resources of the unconscious. Chagall's personal and unique imagery is often suffused with exquisite poetic inspiration. His numerous works represent characteristically vivid recollections of Russian-Jewish village scenes. Chagall's works combine recollection with folklore and fantasy. Chagall also executed many prints illustrating literary classics.