SALVADOR DALÍ (Spanish, 1904-1989)
Les deux paysans dans la fosse, fossoyeurs d’Ophélia, l’un brandit le crâne de Yorick constitué par les chiffres ‘4640/777’ à Hamlet (Acte V, scène 1)
signed with the monogram and dated ‘GALA DALI 1967’ (lower left)
watercolor and pen and ink on paper
15 1/8 x 11 1/4 in. (38.5 x 28.5 cm.)
Nicolas and Olivier Descharnes have confirmed the authenticity of this work.
PROVENANCE: Acquired directly from the artist, and thence by descent to private collection, UK. Private collection, USA.
PRICE: on request
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Alas, poor Yorick! I knew him, Horatio: a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy: he hath borne me on his back a thousand times; and now, how abhorred in my imagination it is! my gorge rims at it. Here hung those lips that I have kissed I know not how oft. Where be your gibes now? Your gambols? your songs? your flashes of merriment, that were wont to set the table on a roar? Not one now, to mock your own grinning? quite chap-fallen? Now get you to my lady’s chamber, and tell her, let her paint an inch thick, to this favour she must come; make her laugh at that.
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Dalí’s Les deux paysans dans la fosse, fossoyeurs d’Ophélia…, created in 1967, is a remarkable work that exemplifies Dalí’s exploration of Shakespearean themes, specifically Hamlet. This watercolor and pen-and-ink piece is part of a series commissioned by Joseph Forêt, blending Dalí’s Surrealist vision with literary masterpieces. The composition reimagines the gravedigger scene from Hamlet (Act V, Scene 1), featuring two peasants, one holding a skull that intriguingly incorporates the numbers “4640/777.” These cryptic numerals evoke Dalí’s fascination with mysticism and numerology, inviting viewers to decipher layers of meaning. The skeletal architecture in the background and the spectral figure of Ophelia infuse the work with Dalí’s hallmark dreamlike quality.
This series reflects Dalí’s deep admiration for Shakespeare, once stating, “Shakespeare is the literary equivalent of my dreams.” Dalí sought to reinterpret canonical texts through his surreal lens, making them visually and intellectually provocative. Signed “GALA DALI” and dated, the piece underscores his bond with his wife and muse, Gala. Measuring 15 1/8 x 11 1/4 inches, this work is not only a testament to Dalí’s technical brilliance but also an embodiment of his ability to infuse historical narratives with avant-garde innovation. For collectors, the rarity of Dalí’s Shakespearean illustrations adds significant value, underscoring its importance within his oeuvre and as a bridge between literature and fine art.
Salvador Dali Hamlet Painting