Dali The Paintings

This comprehensive guide delves into the painted works of Salvador Dalí, one of the most influential and unconventional figures of the 20th century. From aspiring chef at six to dreaming of being Napoleon at seven, Dalí's ambitions only expanded with time. He ultimately resolved to be nothing but Salvador Dalí, a testament to his unique identity. This volume stands as the most exhaustive examination of Dalí's paintings to date. Robert Descharnes and Gilles Néret, after meticulous research, uncovered a wealth of Dalí's creations long hidden from public view, with nearly half of the featured artworks making their debut in this publication.Beyond serving as a mere catalogue raisonné, the book explores the layers of meaning in Dalí's oeuvre, supported by contemporary documents that range from his writings and sketches to endeavors in ballet, cinema, fashion, advertising, and decorative arts. By offering this context, the book elevates the paintings beyond a simple collection of images, allowing for a deeper understanding of Dalí's work.The analysis is split into two sections. The first examines Dalí’s early years when he experimented with and ultimately discarded dominant art movements like Impressionism, Pointillism, Cubism, Fauvism, Purism, and Futurism. These initial explorations reveal how Dalí absorbed and later subverted these styles with a playful touch. The second part sheds light on the culmination of Dalí’s artistic journey, showcasing masterpieces such as "Tuna Fishing" (1966/67) and "Hallucinogenic Toreador" (1970). It also features never-before-seen tributes to artists like Velázquez and Michelangelo, echoing the homages to old masters created by Dalí's contemporary, Picasso. Through a keen desire to unravel the mysteries of celebrated artworks and become a mid-20th-century Velázquez, Dalí ultimately forged his inimitable path.