Salvador Dalí Multiple Sculptures Collection

Salvador Dalí needs no introduction. He was unquestionably one of the great artistic giants of this past century. His profound surrealist vision and artistic talent produced memorable artworks which have never diminished in their popularity. He was not only a painter, but also a multifaceted and eclectic artist in the true sense of the word, widely recognized as a sculptor, writer, illustrator, director, jewelry designer and much more.

The passion and overwhelming desire to express himself with sculpture became a constant in his life. He was particularly interested in sculpture from 1934 until 1987.

Fascinated by this artistic technique, he conceived a series of original maquettes to be transformed into surreal sculptures and objects. In this way his creative genius was able to manifest itself in three-dimensionality, transforming into sculptures those which remain among the most famous and beloved iconographic images created during his life.

The Dalí Multiple Sculptures Collection, a total of 29 bronze sculptures, represents a significant aspect of Dalí’s artistic creation. These rare sculptures are part of a limited edition of 350 plus 35 EA (artist's proofs), created using the historic lost wax method.

Dalí’s direct involvement was to form the idea, the image and to create the original maquette in either wax, plaster, a drawing or a gouache. He then approved these editions through legally executed contracts signed by Dalí himself or his legal representatives and Beniamino Levi, President and Curator of the Dalí Universe, the editor and copyright owner of this collection. The bronze sculptures were thereafter realized by specialized artisans in art foundries, specifically at the Perseo Art Foundry in Mendrisio, Switzerland, who were responsible for creating the mold, pouring the bronze, and applying the patina, in order to create the finished sculptures faithfully using Dalí’s maquette to guide them.

This collection is cited in the official catalogue raisonnè of Dalí’s sculptural works, ‘The Hard and the Soft, Sculptures & Objects’ (Eccart 2004) by Robert and Nicolas Descharnes. This is the most important book regarding Dalí sculpture and recognition by these Dalí experts is testimony to the authenticity of the sculptures.

These sculptures have been exhibited worldwide in many prestigious galleries and locations, and they continue to be sold in the most important auctions houses: Christie's, Sotheby's and Phillips.

“The surreal object is impractical, it serves only to move man, to stimulate and then to confuse. Therefore, the surrealist object is made only to honour thoughts.” – Salvador Dalí

Salvador Dali's work is characterized by a unique philosophy and style that set him apart from his contemporaries. Here's an overview of his philosophy and style:

>>Philosophy: 

Dali was heavily influenced by the theories of Sigmund Freud, particularly Freud's ideas about the subconscious mind and the importance of dreams. Dali believed that the world of the subconscious was a rich source of inspiration and creativity, and he often incorporated surreal and dreamlike imagery into his works. 

Dali was also fascinated by science and technology, and he believed that these fields offered new ways of understanding the world and unlocking the mysteries of the subconscious. He often incorporated scientific and mathematical symbols and concepts into his art.

>>Style:

Dali's style is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, as well as a penchant for the unexpected and the absurd. He often combined disparate elements and objects in unexpected ways, creating a sense of disorientation and unease in the viewer. 

Dali also frequently used symbolism and metaphor in his works, drawing on a wide range of cultural, historical, and religious references. His works often have multiple layers of meaning, inviting the viewer to engage in a process of interpretation and discovery.

Dali's technical skill as a painter is also noteworthy. He was a master of the traditional techniques of oil painting, and he was able to create highly realistic and detailed images. However, he also incorporated experimental techniques and materials, such as dripping and splattering paint, to create a sense of movement and dynamism in his works.

Overall, Salvador Dali's philosophy and style are characterized by a commitment to exploring the mysteries of the subconscious, a fascination with science and technology, and a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional art forms. His innovative approach to painting and sculpture continues to inspire artists and art lovers today.

Here's a brief summary of Salvador Dali's artistic output by year:

1920s:

During the 1920s, Dali was heavily influenced by Cubism and Futurism, as well as the work of artists like Giorgio de Chirico and Max Ernst. He began creating his own surrealist works in 1929, which were characterized by dreamlike and irrational imagery.

1930s:

In the 1930s, Dali became a leading figure in the Surrealist movement and continued to produce a number of iconic works, including "The Persistence of Memory" (1931) and "Metamorphosis of Narcissus" (1937). He also began experimenting with sculpture during this time.

1940s:

During World War II, Dali fled to the United States and continued to produce surrealist works, including "The Elephants" (1948) and "Leda Atomica" (1949). However, he also became interested in religion and mysticism, which influenced some of his later works.

1950s and 1960s:

During the 1950s and 1960s, Dali continued to produce surrealist works, but also began to experiment with other styles and mediums, such as film and fashion design. He also became increasingly interested in science and technology, which is reflected in works like "The Hallucinogenic Toreador" (1968).

1970s and 1980s:

In his later years, Dali continued to produce art, but his health began to decline. He worked on a number of large-scale sculptures during this time, including "The Dalinian Dancer" (1979) and "Space Elephant" (1980). He died in 1989 at the age of 84.

Overall, Salvador Dali's artistic output was marked by a lifelong fascination with the irrational and the subconscious, as well as a willingness to experiment with a wide range of styles and mediums. His contributions to the Surrealist movement and his innovative use of symbolism and imagery continue to influence artists and art lovers today.