Salvador Dali (Spanish, 1904-1989)
“Virgen con niño y cruz” (Virgin with child and cross) (1965)
Ink on paper
78.5cm x 57cm (31″ x 22.4″- unframed)
Accompanied by original certification of authenticity from Nicolas Descharnes.
PRICE: on request
In 1965, Dali created several studies exploring the randomized spread of inks when dabbed on paper. Like a Rorschach test, in the ink splatters Dali saw visions of religious figures including popes, saints and (as shown here) the Christ child and his mother. Composed in an A-frame, this work echoes the Renaissance painter Raphael, whom Dali venerated.
Dalí’s reverence for the Renaissance master Raphael is well-documented, with Dalí himself proclaiming Raphael to be one of the greatest influences on his artistic career. The A-frame composition, a hallmark of Raphael’s religious works, particularly resonated with Dalí for its ability to convey both structural harmony and spiritual ascension. Dalí once stated, “Progressive art can assist people to learn not only about the objective forces at work in the society in which they live but also about the intense social character of their interior lives,” highlighting his belief that art should connect deeply with both spiritual and personal realms.
As a devout Catholic, Dalí frequently infused his works with religious iconography, reflecting his complex relationship with faith and his fascination with divine imagery. In “Virgen con niño y cruz”, Dalí’s use of randomized ink splatters to form the Christ child and Virgin Mary suggests a mystical spontaneity, as though the figures emerged by divine intervention. The A-frame structure underscores the sanctity and reverence inherent in the scene, echoing Raphael’s capacity to imbue religious figures with a sense of profound grace. This synthesis of Renaissance ideals and Dalí’s surrealist innovation makes “Virgen con niño y cruz” a compelling testament to his dual devotion to artistic tradition and spiritual exploration.
This work belongs to a unique period in Dalí’s career where he bridged classical religious themes with experimental techniques. Religious artworks by Dalí hold strong investment potential due to their rarity and the growing demand for museum-quality Surrealist works. Recent sales have shown robust prices for similar Dalí works, with smaller ink-on-paper works achieving between $50,000 and $250,000.
For more information or pricing details, please contact us directly. Don’t miss the chance to own a certified original by Salvador Dalí – an unparalleled addition to any fine art collection.
