Being a Detective with Dali
As one of the most famous surrealist artists of the 20th century, Dalí's popularity has made his works a prime target for forgeries. Dalí created a vast number of lithographs, etchings, and other prints during his lifetime, often produced in large editions. Many of these were not well-documented, making it easier for forgers to create fake editions. Dalí was known to sign blank sheets of paper, which were later used to create prints, sometimes without his direct involvement or oversight. This has led to a large number of dubious "authentic" Dalí prints in circulation. His widespread fame and the high prices his works command have made Dalí a lucrative target for counterfeiters.
Salvador Dalí collaborated with various printmakers, publishers, and studios over the course of his career to produce his prints. These printmakers include Pierre Argillet, Jean Schneider, Atelier Rigal, Joseph Foret, Sidney Z. Lucas, and others.
While I have been in this industry for over four decades, and have had many alleged works by Dali, very few have had substantial provenance. I had become so diligent in properly presenting Dali pieces that I would contact the head of the Dali Foundation.
What I have learned regarding Dali, is that there is skepticism and controversy with almost all of the printers he used and that while most of Dali's presented are questionable, the works that have value are the ones that have provenance intact.
Two works that we are presenting have this strong provenance.
Salvador Dalí's "Departure of the Fisherman" and "The Fisherman", both created in 1965, are notable lithographs that reflect his artistic engagement with maritime themes.
"Departure of the Fisherman" depicts a scene where fishermen prepare to set out for a day's work. The composition is structured with dynamic diagonals formed by the boat's prow, mast, and rigging, contrasted by the softer shapes of drying nets adorned with round black floats. The artwork captures the tranquil moment before the commencement of daily labor. It was limited to 150 signed and numbered impressions, with an additional 12 artist's proofs, totaling 162 prints. It measures approximately 38 x 35¼ inches and was printed by Sidney Lucas, New York (The publisher's stamp is present on the sheet). It is listed in Albert Field's "The Official Catalog of the Graphic Works of Salvador Dalí" as entry 65-1.
"The Fisherman" portrays a fisherman, possibly reflecting Dalí's connection to the coastal landscapes of Catalonia. The artwork emphasizes the solitary figure of the fisherman, highlighting the intimate relationship between the individual and the sea. It was limited to 150 signed and numbered impressions, also printed by Sidney Lucas, New York (The publisher's stamp is present on the sheet). The work measures approximately 39.87 x 23.75 inches. It is listed in Albert Field's catalog as entry 65-2.
And while both pieces have strong provenance and the correct attributes - this particular pair with matched edition numbers, 76/150 has more verification - They were both framed by Phyllis Lucas and the Old Print Center in New York who were closely associated with Sidney Z. Lucas, as they were married and worked together in the art publishing business. Their partnership played a significant role in the distribution and promotion of Salvador Dalí's lithographs and other artworks. Both works have the sticker of the Old Print Center attached in the original backing paper.
These two exceptional Salvador Dalí lithographs, Departure of the Fisherman and The Fisherman (1965), offer collectors a rare opportunity to acquire works with impeccable provenance. Both pieces remain in their original frames, featuring unopened backing paper with the Old Print Center label intact, underscoring their authenticity and meticulous preservation. The condition of both lithographs is excellent, a testament to their careful care over the years. These details ensure that these works stand out as both collectible and investment-worthy pieces for discerning buyers.
We are pleased to announce that we are now accepting pre-auction offers for Departure of the Fisherman and The Fisherman by Salvador Dalí. These rare and meticulously preserved works, accompanied by strong provenance and housed in their original frames with the Old Print Center label, are being made available exclusively to serious collectors prior to their scheduled auction. This is a unique opportunity to secure these highly desirable pieces ahead of the competitive auction process. Please contact us directly to submit your offer or for further inquiries.
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