Salvador Dalí 'Adam and Eve' Bas-Relief Plaque, 24K Gold Plated / 18K Yellow Gold Electroformed
Art Plaque (Bas-Relief Sculptural Medallion) · Yellow Gold (High luster, likely pure 24K finish based on the deep orange-yellow saturation)
Purity: Likely 18K or 24K surface plating/electroforming over a base metal or sterling silver (Vermeil). This is not solid gold; it is a decorative art piece where the gold content is a thin but high-purity outer layer.
Type
Art Plaque (Bas-Relief Sculptural Medallion)
Purity
Likely 18K or 24K surface plating/electroforming over a base metal or sterling silver (Vermeil). This is not solid gold; it is a decorative art piece where the gold content is a thin but high-purity outer layer.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High luster, likely pure 24K finish based on the deep orange-yellow saturation)
Weight
300 - 500 grams (Total weight including base metal/silver core). The actual gold weight is likely less than 1-2 grams of fine gold leaf/plating.
Description
An exquisite bas-relief plaque featuring Salvador Dalí’s surrealist interpretation of 'Adam and Eve.' The piece depicts the biblical figures flanking the Tree of Knowledge, with the serpent entwined around the trunk. The highly reflective gold surface emphasizes Dalí’s signature fluid, organic lines and exaggerated musculature.
Key Features
Distorted anatomical features typical of Dalí's 'Nuclear Mysticism' period, the integrated serpent motif, and the high-relief 'repoussé' effect which gives 3D depth to a flat metal sheet.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich yellow with a high-polish mirror finish on raised surfaces and a stippled/hammered matte texture in the background areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The artist signature 'Dalí' is visible in the lower-left corner of the plaque. On the bottom edge or reverse, one would expect to find a limited edition number (e.g., 1/250) and a metal purity stamp like '925' or 'BRONZE'.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 8 x 4 inches (Plaque only), excluding the frame and matting.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The visual interest is derived entirely from the repoussé-style metallic relief.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; the item is set in a custom wooden shadow-box frame with a velvet mat.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The edge of the plaque is folded over a structural substrate.
Craftsmanship Details
Constructed using an electroforming process where gold is deposited over a wax or resin mold, or stamped/repoussé metalwork. The precision of the textured background against the smooth skin of the figures shows high-level atelier quality.
Authentication Indicators
The fluid 'Dalí' signature at the base and the specific stippling pattern in the background are consistent with official licensed editions from the 1970s. The deep yellow color is a hallmark of high-karat electroforming used in art production of that era.
Origin & Maker
Spain/France; likely produced by a high-end foundry or atelier authorized by Salvador Dalí, such as the Venturi Arte foundry.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Surrealism / Modern (Late 1960s - 1970s).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1979.
Cultural Significance
This piece represents the commercialization of high-modernist art, where surrealist masters like Dalí sought to make their work accessible to wealthy collectors through limited edition decorative objects.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The gold surface shows minor surface dust and micro-scratches consistent with age. There is slight oxidation (reddish toning) in deep crevices, which is typical for vintage gold-plated decorative arts. The frame shows minor edge wear.
Value Estimate
$1,500 - $3,500. The value is based almost entirely on artistic provenance and rarity as a 'Dalí' collectible rather than the melt value of the gold content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive polishes or chemical cleaners. Clean only with a very soft micro-fiber cloth or a goat-hair brush to remove dust. Keep behind UV-filtering glass to prevent the adhesive or wood frame from gassing out and affecting the metal.
Similar Items
Dalí's 'The Persistence of Memory' bas-reliefs or the 'Ten Commandments' gold medals. It can be confused with modern brass reproductions; the key difference is the quality of the 'strike' and the thickness of the gold cladding.
Interesting Facts
Dalí was obsessed with the concept of the 'Golden Ratio' and frequently experimented with precious metals in the 1970s to explore the intersection of art, religion, and alchemy.