Surrealist Figurative Bronze-Gold Alloy Plaque in the style of Salvador Dalí
Artistic Plaque or Large Belt Buckle · Warm Yellow/Bronze tone. Likely a copper-heavy alloy or plated finish.
Purity: Indeterminate; appearances suggest cast bronze or low-karat gold-plated base metal (likely under 10K if gold, or gold-toned brass/bronze)
Type
Artistic Plaque or Large Belt Buckle
Purity
Indeterminate; appearances suggest cast bronze or low-karat gold-plated base metal (likely under 10K if gold, or gold-toned brass/bronze)
Gold Type
Warm Yellow/Bronze tone. Likely a copper-heavy alloy or plated finish.
Weight
Estimated 80-120 grams based on cast thickness and size.
Description
A striking sculptural piece featuring two high-relief abstract human figures flanking a central floral or celestial motif. The figures exhibit elongated, fluid limbs characteristic of Surrealist art. The background has a coarse, organic texture that contrasts with the smooth, polished curves of the figures and the wavy, flame-like top border.
Key Features
Abstract anatomical distortion, heavy stippled background, fluid organic 'undulating' border, and central botanical icon.
Color & Finish
Deep aged bronze/yellow gold with a heavy sand-cast texture (stippled background) and high-polish raised figures.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Illegible markings on the bottom right corner, possibly a stylized artist monogram or manufacturer's cast mark.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 8cm (width) x 6cm (height) x 0.5cm (thickness).
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features high-relief sculptural metalwork.
Clasp & Closure
Reverse side not visible, but likely a flat back or fitted for a belt attachment/stand.
Chain & Links
N/A; solid cast sculptural component.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax or sand-cast fabrication. The mold quality shows high attention to fluid motion and intentional textural contrast.
Authentication Indicators
The granular surface texture is consistent with sand-casting; lack of clear purity stamps (750, 585) suggests it is art-metal rather than fine jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely Western European (Spain or France) or Israeli, reflecting the 'Brutalist' art movement.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to Contemporary; strong Surrealist/Expressionist influence (circa 1950s-1980s).
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s-1970s based on the textural casting and anatomical abstraction.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war shift toward wearable sculpture and the democratization of surrealist aesthetics into everyday objects.
Condition Notes
Very Good; significant surface patina and 'verdigris' in the crevices suggests age and oxidation, likely not high-purity gold.
Value Estimate
Primarily artistic/collectible value. If base metal: $50–$150. If verified 14K gold: $4,000–$6,000 based on melt + premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft dry cloth; avoid chemical cleaners which may strip the intentional patina or original plating.
Similar Items
Salvador Dalí 'The Eye of Time' brooch, Brutalist bronze buckles by makers like Pierre Cardin or Björn Weckström.
Interesting Facts
Sculptors like Dalí and Max Ernst frequently licensed their designs for 'wearable art' in the mid-20th century, bridging fine art and jewelry.