City of Drawers

Salvador Dalí

Created:
Movement:
1936
Surrealism
key Notes:
Surrealism, Anthropomorphic Drawers
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Dimensions:
35.2 × 52.2 cm (13 7/8 × 20 9/16 in.)
medium:
Graphite on buff wove paper
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

"City of Drawers" is a painting by Salvador Dalí, created in 1936. The work exemplifies Dalí's surrealist style, characterized by dreamlike imagery and meticulous detail. The painting features a fantastical landscape populated by drawers, which serve as a metaphor for the subconscious and the hidden aspects of the human psyche. The composition reflects Dalí's interest in psychoanalysis, particularly the theories of Sigmund Freud. The use of architectural elements and the juxtaposition of objects create a sense of disorientation and challenge the viewer's perception of reality. "City of Drawers" is significant within Dalí's oeuvre as it encapsulates his exploration of the irrational and the bizarre. The painting is part of the collection at the Museo de Arte Moderno in Mexico City.

Description of the work:

"City of Drawers" by Salvador Dalí is a work executed in graphite on buff wove paper. The composition features a surreal architectural landscape characterized by a series of drawers integrated into the structures, suggesting a dreamlike quality. The use of fine lines and shading creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, while the meticulous detailing of the drawers emphasizes their surreal presence within the urban environment. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the forms, contributing to the overall illusionistic effect. The drawing reflects Dalí's interest in the subconscious and the juxtaposition of ordinary objects in extraordinary contexts. The overall tonal range is subtle, with a predominance of soft grays and browns, which complements the buff paper's natural hue. The work exemplifies Dalí's distinctive style, merging realism with fantastical elements to challenge perceptions of reality.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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City of Drawers