Salvador Dalí 'The Creation of Man' 18K Gold Bas-Relief Sculpture Plaque
Bas-Relief Sculptural Plaque / Art Object · Yellow Gold with a deep bronze-toned patina; likely high-manganese or copper alloy content to support the darker oxidation effects.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); Approximately 75% pure gold, often alloyed with copper and silver for structural strength in sculptural pieces.
Type
Bas-Relief Sculptural Plaque / Art Object
Purity
18K (750 fineness); Approximately 75% pure gold, often alloyed with copper and silver for structural strength in sculptural pieces.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a deep bronze-toned patina; likely high-manganese or copper alloy content to support the darker oxidation effects.
Weight
Estimated 80 to 120 grams. Based on the size and thickness held in hand, the piece appears to be a solid cast plaque rather than a hollow shell.
Description
A stunning and rare 18K gold bas-relief plaque featuring a surrealist interpretation of 'The Creation of Man.' The piece utilizes fluid, melting forms to represent the divine spark, characteristic of Salvador Dalí’s 'nuclear mysticism' period. The textured background contrasts beautifully with the polished highs of the anatomical figures, creating a three-dimensional landscape in gold.
Key Features
Hand-chiseled aesthetics, authentic 'Dalí' cursive signature, and the distinct 'melting gold' texture that mimics the artist's famous soft-watch motif.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich golden-bronze tone with a textured, matte antique finish. It features intentional surface oxidation (patina) to highlight the topographical sculptural details.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved signature of 'Dalí' on the lower right corner. Typically accompanied by a '750' purity stamp and a limited edition number (e.g., I/XX) on the reverse or bottom edge.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) in length and 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) in height. Standard size for high-end boutique art multiples of the era.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The artistic value is derived entirely from the precious metal manipulation and the sculptural composition.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; typically displayed on a velvet-lined marble or wooden stand, or integrated into a custom frame.
Chain & Links
N/A; Solid rectangular cast construction with uneven, organic edges characteristic of Surrealist sculpture.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax casting (Cire Perdue) method. The detail in the 'flowing' limbs shows high-level mastery of mold making and hand-finishing to ensure the signature is legible and the texture uniform.
Authentication Indicators
The fluid movement of the figures is a specific Dalínian trait. Presence of the stamped '750' (if checked on reverse) and the weight-to-volume ratio specific to 18K gold should be verified via XRF.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland or France; likely cast by a specialist art foundry such as Venturi Arte or Huguenin under the license of Salvador Dalí.
Era & Period
Modern / Surrealist (Mid-Century Modern influence, circa 1970s). Produced during Dalí’s period of creating secular and religious sculptural multiples.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1980; consistent with Dalí's prolific period of signing contracts for precious metal art editions.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of Fine Art and Luxury Bullion. It reflects the 20th-century trend where master artists like Picasso and Dalí moved into the medium of precious metals for elite collectors.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Shows a natural aged patina which adds value to art pieces. No major dents or deep scratches; edges remain crisp.
Value Estimate
Estimated $8,000 - $15,000 USD. Value is based on gold melt value (approx. $5,500-$7,000) plus a significant 50-100% premium for the artist's signature and limited edition status.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive polishes or ultrasonic cleaners as they will strip the artist's intended patina. Use only a soft micro-fiber cloth and keep in a temperature-controlled environment away from high humidity.
Similar Items
Salvador Dalí 'Christ of St. John of the Cross' gold pendants or Henry Moore bronze/gold maquettes; however, Dalí's gold reliefs carry a higher premium due to his specific celebrity status.
Interesting Facts
Salvador Dalí was obsessed with gold, often referring to himself as 'Avida Dollars' (an anagram of his name meaning 'greedy for dollars'). He designed jewelry and gold objects to manifest his dreams into reality.