Lovers by the River

Lovers by the River is an intimate drypoint print created by Marc Chagall in 1922. This evocative work exemplifies the artist's continued fascination with tender, often gravity-defying romantic scenes, rendered here through the linear and expressive technique of drypoint. Drypoint, a form of intaglio printmaking, involves scratching directly into a copper plate with a sharp point, raising a metal burr that, when inked, produces the soft, velvety lines unique to this medium.

The 1922 print showcases the poetic fusion of reality and fantasy that defines Chagall's artistic voice. The composition likely depicts a couple in a loving embrace, perhaps situated illogically or floating near a river setting, reflecting the dreamlike quality characteristic of the French artist’s output during his time working in the Parisian avant-garde. These emotionally charged, deeply personal subjects cemented the piece’s classification as a major example of early modern prints.

Produced shortly after the end of World War I, the work captures the resurgence of hope and passion, channeled through Chagall's unique personal iconography, which often merged memories of his native Vitebsk with contemporary European styles. The delicate execution highlights the mastery of line required for drypoint, demonstrating the artist’s skill outside of painting.

This significant piece, showcasing the expressive power of the artist’s graphic work, is officially part of the collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), ensuring its accessibility and scholarly importance. While the copyright status of this 1922 work varies globally, references to historic prints of this period are often studied via public domain resources in certain jurisdictions, allowing broader research into Chagall’s profound influence on 20th-century art.