In this motif, the figure of Jesse was usually depicted reclining at the foot of the tree, with the trunk either growing out of his body or from behind him, although sometimes, Jesse was omitted from the renderings altogether. Members of Jesus' genealogy were placed on the branches, while Mary and Jesus crowned the apex of the tree, usually accompanied by angels. The number of Jesus' ancestors shown in the tree varied, but usually included David and Abraham. The figures of prophets were usually depicted flanking the tree.
Chagall's resurrection of this outdated Christian motif was meant to emphasize Judaism's and Christianity's common roots.
See: Marc Chagall. Tree
of Jesse.