Salvador Dalí is one of the most famous artists of the surrealist movement, and his works continue to generate great interest at auction. Some of his works have reached record figures in international auctions.
According to Artprice, Dalí is currently 55th in the world sales ranking, with a turnover of 18 million in 2024, mainly with painting works sold in France.
Salvador Dalí: record at auction
The painting “Portrait de Paul Éluard” from 1929 holds the record for the most expensive work by Dalí sold at auction. It was sold for 13.5 million pounds (approximately 21.7 million dollars) by Sotheby’s in London on February 10, 2011.
Another significant sale occurred in November 2021, when “L’Angélus” (circa 1934-1935) was sold for over 10 million dollars.
Even Dalí’s sculptures have reached remarkable prices. For example, the bronze sculpture “Space Venus” was sold for about 2.7 million dollars.
Recently, in October 2024, the painting “Rose méditative” (1958) was sold for 3.9 million euros (about 4.23 million dollars) during the “Surrealism and its Legacy” auction by Sotheby’s in Paris, nearly quadrupling the maximum estimated price.
Salvador Dalí: lithographs and engravings at auction
In addition to paintings and sculptures, Dalí’s works on paper, such as lithographs and engravings, are highly sought after and certainly generally more affordable.
For example, the collection of 13 photocalcographies “Dalì Illustre Casanova” was sold for 1,900 euros, while the color lithograph “Peduncolo fiorito” was sold for 600 euros.
These results highlight the ongoing demand and appreciation for the works of Salvador Dalí in the art market, with prices varying significantly based on the medium, rarity, and provenance of the works.
Buying Salvador Dalí at the auction
Buying a work by Salvador Dalí at auction can be an excellent investment opportunity, but it is essential to pay attention to several aspects to avoid unpleasant surprises. Here’s what you should know:
1. Authenticity and Provenance
- Certificate of authenticity: Dalí created many works, but there are also numerous forgeries. Verify that the work has a certificate of authenticity issued by a recognized authority.
- Dalí Archive: Some works are registered with the Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí or other reliable archives.
- Provenance: Check the history of the artwork, who has owned it in the past, and if it has been exhibited in exhibitions or museums.
2. Technique and Medium
- Dipinti originali: They are rare and very expensive.
- Litografie e stampe: Dalí produced many limited editions, but it is important to distinguish between authenticated ones and reproductions without collectible value.
- Sculture: Often in numbered editions, check the number of pieces produced and if it falls within the official editions.
3. Conditions of the Work
- Restorations or damages: A work in poor condition can lose value. Request a conservation report or an appraisal before making an offer.
4. Evaluation and Price
- Previous sales: Check the sale prices of similar works on sites like Artnet, Sotheby’s, and Christie’s.
- Estimate and reserve: Auction houses set an estimate, but some works have a reserve price (minimum undisclosed sale price).
5. Commissions and Extra Costs
- Auction rights: In addition to the hammer price, you must consider the auction house commissions (buyer’s premium), which can reach 20-30%.
- Droit de suite: In some European countries, an additional percentage is paid to the artist’s heirs.
6. Market Trend
- Demand and Supply: The market for Dalí is active, but some works are more in demand than others. For example, iconic surrealist paintings are worth more compared to less rare prints.
- Collectible interest: Collectors prefer works with museum provenance or from particularly significant periods (e.g., ’30s-’50s).
7. Avoid Scams and Impulsive Purchases
- Attention to fakes: Some sellers offer signed prints but without artistic value.
- Independent evaluation: If you have doubts, consult an independent expert before purchasing.
As expert in digital marketing, Amelia began working in the fintech sector in 2014 after writing her thesis on Bitcoin technology. Previously author for several international crypto-related magazines and CMO at Eidoo. She is now the co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Cryptonomist and Econique.
She is also a marketing teacher at Digital Coach in Milan and she published a book about NFTs for the Italian publishing house Mondadori, while she is also helping artists and company to entering in the sector. As advisor, Amelia is also involved in metaverse-related project such as The Nemesis and OVER.
