Marc Chagall's Three Candles

From Amazon.com:

Marc Chagall (1887-1985) epitomized the "painter as poet" with work that was steeped in mythology and mysticism, portraying colorful dreams and folktales deeply rooted in his Russian Jewish origins. No 20th-century artist approached him in popularity.
Consider his most famous painting: The three candles, where the lovers couple defy not only the gravity 's acceleration, but are by themselves a real breakthrough with the oppressed human beings. The sad harlequin and the tragic red, the couple is just so far from being happy, they weep the invisible presence of the implacable menace.

From Chagallpaintings.org


Common Themes: Upon close inspection you will notice that Chagall has incorporated many of his trademark themes here, such as young love and religious icons, while mixing in his abstract style. The background features many angelic-like figures floating around. The young couple appears to be rising up with the angels, which reflects heavily on Chagall’s appreciation of love, and the respect and dignity that he affords it.
Religion: The young lovers themselves are focusing on the candles, which have definite religious undertones, conveying a religious perspective for their relationship. The land and small town in the background are presented in a fashion typical of Marc Chagall paintings: small, on a hill, and painted with function rather than form. While the center of the painting; the young couple and the candles, are shown in a clear and targeted manner. All other elements are revealed in a dreamlike state, with little detail and an abstract style.