Salvador Dali Christ of St. John of the Cross Gold Sculpture Signed Edition of 500

Artist: Salvador Dali
Title: Christ of St. John of the Cross
Medium: Sculpture in gold, mounted on green marble
Size with marble base: 14.75" H x 6" x 6"
Size without base: 13.5" H x 5.25" W x 5" D
Edition: G88/500
Publisher: Published by Vestart, Ltd.
Date: 1981
Inscription: Etched edition number and signature
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

Salvador Dali's 18-karat gold sculpture titled "Christ on the Cross", is a remarkable creation by the legendary surrealist. This is a direct representation of the theme of religion; a theme Dali explored repeatedly throughout his career, interested in its relationship with science and its symbolism. The sculpture is a testament to Dali's unparalleled artistic vision, showcasing his intricate attention to detail and innovative approach to form and material. The piece embodies the dramatic and emotive qualities characteristic of Dali's work. As a master of many mediums, Dali’s use of gold here is very intentional, showing upmost reverence for the symbol of Christ.

The sculpture is part of a limited edition series, with this particular piece being number G88 out of 500. The sculpture measures 14.75" high and 6" wide. Dali's signature and the edition number are etched onto the sculpture, and purchase includes a gallery certificate of authenticity.

About Salvador Dali

Salvador Dali was born in Figueres, Spain, in 1904. Recognizing his talent early on, his family encouraged his artistic pursuits. In 1917, Dali's father showcased his charcoal drawings in their home, and the following year, Dali held his first public exhibition at the Theatre in Figueres. In 1960, Dali purchased this theatre and transformed it into a museum dedicated to his work.

In 1922, Dali moved to Madrid to study at the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, where he began to gain recognition for his cubist works and his eccentric personal style. He held his first solo art exhibition in Barcelona in 1927, which was well-received by both the public and critics.

Until 1929, Dali experimented with various styles. Although some themes from his early work persisted throughout his career, he was not considered a surrealist until he officially joined the surrealist group in 1929. In 1931, Dali painted "The Persistence of Memory," featuring melting clocks. This painting became not only his best-known work but also the most famous surrealist piece ever created. However, tension grew between Dali and the surrealist group due to his less political stance and his belief that surrealism should exist independently of politics. This led to criticism from his contemporaries, who disapproved of the commercial appeal of his work. In the 1930s, Dali became increasingly interested in large-scale installations, including his 1939 "Dream of Venus" at the New York World's Fair.

Dali passed away from heart failure in 1989 and was buried in a crypt beneath the stage at his museum in Figueres. In his final years, he continued to create art and work on his museum.