Discover a vibrant and symbolic retelling of the biblical flood narrative in Noah, an oil on paper by the distinguished Israeli artist David Sharir. Created in his signature decorative style, this 53 × 39 cm work transforms the story of Noah’s Ark into a harmonious visual poem.
About the Artist
David Sharir was born in 1938 in Tel Aviv to Russian immigrants from Bessarabia. He began his formal art training at the Avni Institute in Tel Aviv. Moreover, he continued his studies in Italy at the Accademia delle Belle Arti in Florence and at the University of Rome. In addition, Sharir explored architecture and theatre design, experiences that later shaped his strong sense of composition and narrative staging. He held his first exhibition at the age of nineteen and has since developed a highly recognisable style that blends folk-art traditions, Persian miniature influences, and joyful Israeli modernism.
Consequently, his works frequently draw on Jewish biblical themes, festivals, and symbolic animals, rendered with bright colours, intricate patterns, and a distinctive naïve sophistication. Sharir’s pieces appear in major private and public collections worldwide and remain sought after for their warmth and storytelling power.
The Artwork
In Noah, Sharir organises the composition within a graceful arched frame against a luminous blue background dotted with white specks that evoke stars or gentle rain. At the centre rises a stylised Tree of Life whose branches form six circular medallions. Each medallion contains a different animal—lion, cow, deer, cat, donkey, and ram—interwoven with grapevines and white blossoms.
Furthermore, a striking blue peacock-like bird carrying grapes hovers at the top, while a delicate patterned leaf and a small folk-dressed figure holding a snake appear on the right. Below, two birds rest inside a green bowl (suggesting the Ark itself), accompanied by a bear and a yellow cow. Thus, Sharir gathers representatives of the animals as Noah did before the flood, yet places them within a Tree of Life.
Artistic Significance
Sharir does not illustrate the flood literally; instead, he condenses its essence into a joyful tableau. In this way, the painting bridges folk tradition and contemporary art. The modest yet impactful scale (53 × 39 cm) makes it ideal for intimate spaces, where its glowing colours and rhythmic patterns continue to reward repeated viewing.
Available at Kings Gallery Jerusalem
This unique oil on paper is currently offered by Kings Gallery Jerusalem. Kings Gallery is a leading fine art gallery established in Jerusalem in 1995. We strive to collect and sell the highest quality historic and contemporary Israeli and International art. The gallery specializes primarily in artists from the early period of the 1920’s. Besides, Kings Gallery features leading up-and-coming young artists who will definitely be prominent names in the next few years.
