Named in honor of the Russian-born painter Marc Chagall (1887–1985), whose dreamlike, often whimsical, representations of people and animals have made him one of the most popular and innovative artists of the twentieth century. Chagall’s paintings reflect his strong religious background and an inner, almost childish, joy and love for life and the world. His major works include hundreds of paintings and book illustrations, as well as stage and costume design for theater and ballet. (M 8802) _ _.