In 1963, Marc Chagall was commissioned to create a mural for the ceiling of the Paris Opera, a majestic 19th-century building. French Culture Minister André Malraux sought a unique result and believed Chagall was perfect for the task. However, the choice of artist sparked controversy: some opposed a Russian Jew adorning a French national monument, while others disagreed with a modern master painting the ceiling of a historic building.

Despite the disagreements, 77-year-old Chagall continued to work on the project. The final mural covered an area of nearly 220 square meters and required 440 pounds of paint. It consisted of five parts, which were secured to polyester panels and installed on the ceiling at a height of 70 feet. In his images, Chagall paid tribute to Mozart, Wagner, Mussorgsky, Berlioz, Ravel, as well as famous actors and dancers.

The project was unveiled to the public on September 23, 1964, in the presence of Malraux and 2,100 guests. The Paris correspondent for the New York Times noted: "This time, the best seats in the hall were in the center. At first, the large crystal chandelier in the center of the ceiling was turned off... the entire corps de ballet came on stage, and then, in honor of Chagall, the orchestra performed Mozart's 'Jupiter Symphony,' the artist's favorite composer. During the final notes, the chandelier lit up, illuminating Chagall's work in all its glory, to the enthusiastic applause of the audience. Even the most ardent opponents among the commission fell silent...".

Chagall lived up to all expectations. Malraux later remarked: "Which of the living artists could have painted the ceiling of the Paris Opera as Chagall did? He is, above all, one of the greatest colorists of our time..."