Signed Book & Unique Hand Drawing
Marc Chagall
French/Russian, 1887–1985
A unique hand drawing of the Paris Opera ceiling, executed in vibrant color crayons and signed by Marc Chagall in 1971
Book Published in 1965 | Inscribed in 1971
Includes Original Frontispiece Lithograph (Mourlot 434) & Sorlier Lithographs
Historic Provenance & Dedication
Gifted by Marc Chagall to Mayor Jean Drapeau of Montreal (1971)
This distinguished volume represents a monumental piece of art history, adorned with a full-page original hand drawing executed in vibrant wax crayons and ink, personally signed and inscribed by Marc Chagall to Jean Drapeau, the visionary Mayor of Montreal: "Pour Monsieur Jean Drapeau / en bon souvenir / Marc Chagall / 1971".
Published by André Sauret in 1965, this exquisite monograph commemorates Chagall’s iconic ceiling masterpiece at the Palais Garnier in Paris. The publication features an exclusive original color lithograph created specifically by Chagall for the frontispiece (Mourlot 434), alongside six rich color lithographs expertly drawn on stone by master printer Charles Sorlier, all pulled on the historical presses of Atelier Mourlot Frères.
About the Recipient
Jean Drapeau (1916–1999) – Visionary Mayor of Montreal
Jean Drapeau was one of Canada’s most influential civic leaders, serving as Mayor of Montreal for nearly three decades (1954–1957, 1960–1986). A passionate patron of modern architecture and culture, Drapeau spearheaded projects that transformed Montreal into a global metropolis, including the creation of the Montreal Metro, hosting the historic Expo 67 World's Fair, and securing the 1976 Summer Olympic Games. In recognition of his monumental legacy, Montreal's famous island park and major cultural venue on the St. Lawrence River was officially renamed Parc Jean-Drapeau in his honor.
Publication Title: Le Plafond de l'Opéra de Paris (Text by Jacques Lassaigne, Poem by Louis Aragon)
Publisher & Date: André Sauret, Monte Carlo, 1965 (Inscribed in 1971)
Printer: Atelier Mourlot Frères, Paris (Lithographic Workshop)
Book Format / Dimensions: Hardcover in original cloth with original printed dust jacket, 12.8 × 9.8 in (32.5 × 25 cm)
Catalogue Raisonné References: Mourlot 434 (Original Frontispiece Lithograph); Cramer Books 61
Artistic Content & Inclusions:
• Unique Inscribed Drawing (1971): An extraordinary, fluid composition across the opening title spread. Chagall elegantly renders the famous circular motif of the Paris Opera ceiling surrounding the typography in rich crimson, violet, and green crayons. Beneath the title on the left, he details a painter's palette dabbed with bright pigments, harmoniously anchored on the right by a magnificent, sweeping signature: "Marc Chagall". On the facing left leaf, the year "1971" is boldly inscribed in crimson crayon.
• Original Frontispiece Lithograph (Mourlot 434): Specially drawn on stone by Chagall for this volume and printed by Mourlot Frères. No separate or deluxe signed edition was ever pulled outside of this publication.
• Charles Sorlier Lithographs: 6 full-page color lithographs painstakingly transferred to stone by master printer Charles Sorlier after Chagall's original preparatory gouaches and maquettes.
• Binding & Provenance: Preserved in its original publisher's cloth binding with intact dust jacket and band, offering museum-grade provenance linking Chagall to one of Canada's most celebrated historic figures.
Condition: Exceptional original condition throughout. The paper remains fresh, crisp, and clean, with Chagall's crayon drawing, signature, and all lithographic plates exhibiting outstanding color saturation.
Guaranteed authentic presentation copy with impeccable historic provenance.
