A Chemist Lifting with Extreme Precaution the Cuticle of a Grand Piano

Salvador Dalí

Created:
Movement:
1936
Surrealism
key Notes:
Surreal juxtaposition, meticulous detail
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Dimensions:
48.3 × 64.1 cm (19 × 25 1/4 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"A Chemist Lifting with Extreme Precaution the Cuticle of a Grand Piano" is a painting by Salvador Dalí, created in 1925. This work exemplifies Dalí's early surrealist style, characterized by meticulous detail and dreamlike imagery. The painting features a chemist, depicted with exaggerated precision, engaging in an unusual act that combines elements of science and art. The grand piano serves as a central motif, symbolizing the intersection of music and visual art. Dalí's use of hyperrealism in this piece reflects his interest in the subconscious and the irrational. The title itself suggests a juxtaposition of the mundane and the extraordinary, a common theme in surrealist works. This painting is significant in understanding Dalí's exploration of perception and reality during the early phase of his career. The exact date of creation remains unspecified, but it is situated within the context of Dalí's formative years as an artist.

Description of the work:

"A Chemist Lifting with Extreme Precaution the Cuticle of a Grand Piano" by Salvador Dalí features a surreal composition characterized by meticulous detail and a dreamlike quality. The painting presents a grand piano, rendered with a high degree of realism, juxtaposed against an abstract background that enhances its surreal nature. The central figure, a chemist, is depicted in a precise manner, emphasizing the tension between scientific inquiry and artistic expression. The use of oil on canvas allows for rich textures and vibrant colors, contributing to the overall visual impact. The interplay of light and shadow creates depth, while the unusual subject matter invites contemplation of the relationship between music and science. Dalí's signature style is evident in the exaggerated forms and unexpected elements, which challenge conventional perceptions of reality. The composition is meticulously balanced, drawing the viewer's eye across the canvas and inviting a closer examination of the intricate details.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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A Chemist Lifting with Extreme Precaution the Cuticle of a Grand Piano