Today In History; Birthdate of Marc Chagall, French Painter And Designer

1887: Born Mark Zakharovich Shagal in Russia, modern artist Marc Chagall is best known for his dream-like fantasy paintings, a style considered a forerunner to surrealism. He also designed sets and costumes for a 1945 production of Stravinsky's ballet The Firebird, twelve stained-glass windows and two vast murals for New York's Metropolitan Opera House. Chagall illustrated numerous books, including a 1956 publication of the Bible. The scope of his abilities proved Chagall to be one of art’s great masters in the 20th century.