Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints and Angels

Salvador Dalí

Created:
Movement:
1958
Surrealism
key Notes:
Surrealist Iconography, Religious Symbolism
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Dimensions:
88 7/8 × 75 1/4 in. (225.7 × 191.1 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints and Angels" is a painting by Salvador Dalí created in 1958. The work reflects Dalí's interest in religious themes and incorporates elements of surrealism and classical composition. It features the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child seated on a throne, surrounded by saints and angels, rendered in Dalí's distinctive style characterized by meticulous detail and dreamlike imagery. The painting is notable for its use of vibrant colors and complex symbolism, which invites various interpretations. It was commissioned by the Spanish government for the 1958 International Exhibition in Brussels. The painting is currently housed in a private collection. Further details about its provenance and exhibition history are not widely documented.

Description of the work:

"Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints and Angels" by Salvador Dalí, created in 1958, is an oil on canvas painting that features a central depiction of the Madonna and Child seated on a throne. The figures are rendered with Dalí's characteristic attention to detail, showcasing a blend of realism and surrealism. Surrounding the Madonna and Child are various saints and angels, each portrayed with distinct facial expressions and gestures that convey a sense of reverence. The color palette is rich and vibrant, with deep blues, golds, and reds dominating the composition. The background is characterized by a dreamlike landscape that enhances the ethereal quality of the scene. Dalí employs intricate patterns and textures, particularly in the drapery of the figures, which adds depth and complexity to the work. The overall arrangement of the figures creates a sense of harmony and balance, typical of religious iconography, while also reflecting Dalí's unique artistic vision. The painting exemplifies a fusion of traditional themes with modern techniques, showcasing Dalí's ability to reinterpret classical subjects through his distinctive style.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints and Angels