Cosmic Rays Resuscitating Soft Watches © Salvador Dali 1965
Salvador Dali
84 works
Key Takeaways
Salvador Dali's prints have shown consistent market growth, with a 14% increase in value between 2023 and 2024. Individual prints typically fetch between £2,000 and £15,000, while first-edition complete portfolios regularly exceed £60,000. His early work commands premium prices, exemplified by Figura De Cajones (1937) which holds the record at £220,000. Authentication requires thorough examination, with reference to the Michler-Löpsinger catalogue raisonné and verification through established print studios like Atelier Mourlot. Dali's complex printing techniques, often incorporating up to twelve colours and experimental combinations of methods, make condition particularly crucial to value. The French and American markets remain strongest, with Paris, Los Angeles, and New York consistently achieving record prices. Strategic sale timing, influenced by major exhibitions and significant painting sales, can substantially impact returns.
Salvador Dali transformed the possibilities of printmaking through his distinctive paranoiac-critical methods, creating works that challenged both technical boundaries and viewer perception. His prints, ranging from detailed lithographs to experimental combinations of multiple techniques, reflect the same inventive spirit that characterised his entire creative output. This guide provides essential insights for those looking to navigate the market for Dali's prints, offering detailed information on valuation, authentication, and effective selling strategies.
Dali approached printmaking with the same theatrical flair he brought to all his artistic endeavours. Throughout his career, the Spanish artist's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to translate Surrealist imagination into print form set new standards for what could be achieved in the medium. His collaborations with master printers and publishers, including Pierre Argillet and Giuseppe Albaretto, resulted in some of the most technically ambitious print series of the 20th century. His experimentation with various printing methods, including combinations of lithography, etching, and woodcut, often enhanced by hand-colouring or embellishment, produced prints that maintain their appeal and value in today's market.
How Much Do Salvador Dali Prints Sell For?
Salvador Dali's mastery of printmaking techniques and his relentless pursuit of innovation ensure that his prints maintain consistent value in the art market - in fact, between 2023 and 2024, Dali prints grew in value by 14%. Individual prints typically achieve between £2,000 and £15,000, depending on factors such as rarity, condition, and series, while complete portfolios can command prices of over £20,000.
The Divine Comedy series, comprising 100 wood engravings created between 1951 and 1964, represents Dali's most ambitious and typically his most valuable print project. A complete portfolio from the original edition of 150, intact in their clamshell boxes and slipcases, sold at Bonhams Los Angeles for £60,898. These works, with their varying styles and complex content, bring together all of Dali’s characteristic whimsy with the depth of existential exploration seen in his painted works. It’s important to note, however, that later editions of 2900 and 4765 were printed; complete sets of which can expect to achieve four-figure values. Incomplete sets of the first edition can still expect to sell well. In 2024, for example, a collection of 24 Divine Comedy prints sold for £7,681 in Rome.
The record for highest-value print sale, however, is held by a much earlier work. Figura De Cajones (1937), a woodcut print with pen embellishments, sold for £220,000 in Paris in 1989. The print’s value derives from both its imagery - a figure with empty drawers in its chest - and its history of display at the Tate Modern, proving the importance of established and interesting provenance. Another example of Dali’s popular early work is the collection of etchings created to accompany Comte de Lautréamont’s 1934 poetic novel Les Chants de Maldoror. An incomplete portfolio of 42 of these etchings sold in 2017 for £49,041, doubling its low estimate. In an edition of only 40, and with a dedication to Henri Lefevre, this particular collection was a fairly unique find. Another portfolio of 50 from a later edition of 100 sold for £32,000 in 2008.
From Dali’s later, more colourful works, popular print series include Les Caprices De Goya De Dali (1977), a collection of which sold for £38,623 in 2019, After Fifty Years Of Surrealism (1974), a collection of which sold for £30,000 in 2018, and The Mythology (1963-65), a collection of which sold for £38,000 in 2023. Individual prints from these series, such as Leda (1965) from The Mythology, can be expected to sell in the region of £2,000 to £3,000.
Dali’s later prints, from the 1960s and 1970s, are more often lithographs than his earlier works, which tend to be etchings or woodcuts. Dali’s lithographs typically achieve slightly lower prices, with collections such as Aliyah (1968) and Imaginations And Objects Of The Future (1975-76) consistently achieving around the £20,000 mark. Aliyah (1968) sold for £21,580 as recently as October 2024.
Other factors that can influence the value of your Dali print include hand-coloured elements, experimental combinations of printing techniques, its status as an artist or printer proof, and the noted involvement of well-known printers and publishers. Print collections such as Hippies (1969) published by Pierre Argillet, known for his dedication to traditional printing methods and rejection of photo-lithography, for example, will always be popular.
How Do You Authenticate a Salvador Dali Print?
Authentication of Salvador Dali prints presents unique challenges due to the significant number of unauthorised reproductions that entered the market during and after his lifetime. Establishing provenance forms the foundation of authentication, with thorough documentation of ownership history and exhibition records being essential. Any certificates of authenticity, particularly those from recognised publishers such as Pierre Argillet or Giuseppe Albaretto, carry significant weight.
Physical analysis from an expert eye plays a crucial role in verification. Dali worked with several prestigious printing studios, each maintaining specific practices regarding paper selection and printing techniques. Lithographs produced at Atelier Mourlot, for example, bear their distinctive blind stamp, whilst those created with Pierre Argillet often include Argillet’s hand-written signature. Understanding these relationships helps authenticate prints from different periods of Dali's career.
The definitive catalogue raisonné for Dali's prints, compiled by Ralf Michler and Lutz Löpsinger, remains the primary reference for authentication. This comprehensive catalogue, published in 1994, documents approximately 1,700 mixed-media prints and etchings, providing detailed information about techniques, editions, and variations. The catalogue also notes specific characteristics of genuine prints, helping distinguish them from reproductions. Alternatively, the Fundació Gala-Salvador Dali, which manages the artist’s estate, including exhibitions at the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida, and the Fundació Sala-Salvador Dali in Figueres, maintains extensive records and can assist with verification. Their database includes detailed documentation of print editions, including paper types, watermarks, and printing techniques specific to each series. This resource proves particularly valuable for authenticating prints from Dali's later period, when numerous workshops were producing his work.
Edition & Signature
Salvador Dali's approach to signing prints evolved throughout his career, though certain characteristics remained consistent. His signature typically appears in pencil in the lower right margin, characterised by its flowing style and distinctive flourishes. Earlier prints often feature more controlled signatures, whilst those from his later period display increasingly elaborate penmanship. Particular value is placed on Dali’s frequent additional notations, including notes on colours used (for example, “good to pull, indigo” on a print of Le Colosse (1972)) and dedications to friends.
First editions varied considerably in size, ranging from intimate runs of 25 to larger editions of 250 or more; however, later reproductions sometimes extended to 5000 prints. Artist's proofs, marked “E.A.” (épreuve d'artiste), are highly prized. Dali also created numerous special editions featuring hand-colouring or additional remarques, which can command premium prices when their authenticity is confirmed.
Browse Salvador Dali prints on the Trading Floor and find out more about the print market growth on the MAB100 Print Index.
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Has Your Salvador Dali Print Been Kept in Good Condition?
The value of a Salvador Dali print can be directly connected to its condition. Prints that have been preserved in near-mint condition will achieve higher prices, while prints that have sustained damage will be more complex to value. Dali frequently employed specialised papers, including Arches wove and Rives BFK, specifically chosen for their ability to capture both the precise lines of his etchings and the subtle tonal variations of his lithographs. These papers, whilst naturally durable, remain vulnerable to acid burn, yellowing, and foxing, particularly around the edges.
Dali's experimental approach to printmaking often involved complex layering of colours and techniques and occasionally some hand-embellishments. His lithographs frequently feature up to twelve different colours, each requiring precise registration. These intricate combinations of inks can react differently to environmental conditions, potentially leading to uneven fading or colour shifts when exposed to direct sunlight or artificial light. The metallic inks he occasionally employed, particularly in series such as The Divine Comedy, are especially prone to oxidation.
Hand-embellished prints require particular care, as the additional media - whether watercolour, gouache, or gold leaf - can deteriorate at different rates from the printed elements. These unique additions often represent the most valuable aspects of a print and should be protected from any physical contact or environmental stress.
For the best chance of keeping your print pristine, store in an acid-free portfolio, away from fluctuating humidity and temperature. If framing is desired, use UV-protective glass and ensure all mounting materials are archival quality. Handle prints exclusively whilst wearing clean cotton gloves to prevent oils and dirt from damaging the paper surface. Regular assessment by qualified conservators can help prevent deterioration and maintain value.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Salvador Dali print, contact MyArtBroker.
When is the Best Time to Sell My Salvador Dali Print?
The market for Salvador Dali prints responds to factors such as cultural events, retrospectives, and broader trends in Surrealist art collecting. Understanding these patterns can significantly enhance the potential return on your investment. The past decade has demonstrated particularly strong results following major museum exhibitions of Dali’s work. In 2013, for example, the Museo Reina Sofía and the Centre Georges Pompidou organised an exhibition of Dali’s work that prompted an uptick in print value across Europe. In the same year, an exhibition at MoMA prompted an increase in interest in New York.
Notable sales of original paintings also have a significant impact on print sales. In 2011, for example, the record sale of Portrait De Paul Eluard (1929) for £12million, sent ripples through the print market. The effects of high-value sales since 2020 are still being felt - Couple Aux Têtes Pleines De Nuages (1937) sold for £7million in 2020, and L'Àngelus (c.1934-1935) sold for nearly £6.8million in 2021. The simplest way to trace trends such as these is via the freely-available value trajectory reports and auction sales results published on the websites of prominent auction houses.
The international market follows regular seasonal patterns, with peak activity typically occurring during spring and autumn. These periods coincide with major art fairs and themed auctions at prestigious houses, particularly in Paris and northern America, where Dali's work traditionally achieves its strongest results - the top five Dali print sales have occurred in Paris, Los Angeles, and New York.
MyArtBroker offers advanced art tech tools to help you determine the optimal time to sell your Dali print. Our MyPortfolio service features an AI-powered value indicator that provides real-time valuations of individual prints based on both public and private sales data. Combined with our complimentary valuations, we can help ensure your print achieves maximum value by selling at the perfect moment.
Where Can I Sell My Salvador Dali Print?
Selling a Salvador Dali Via a Broker
Art brokers specialising in Surrealist prints can offer a more personalised approach to selling Dali's work. These professionals often maintain networks of collectors specifically interested in 20th century masters and can facilitate private sales with discretion and efficiency. Working with a broker typically involves lower fees than auction houses, generally ranging from 10 to 20% of the final sale price. Brokers can be particularly effective for prints that might appeal to specific collectors, such as those focused on particular periods or series within Dali's printmaking career. When selecting a broker, prioritise those with demonstrated experience handling Dali's work and understanding of both European and Asian markets. The personalised nature of working with a broker allows for greater flexibility in timing and strategy. Unlike auction houses, brokers can adjust their approach based on market conditions and individual client needs. They often maintain relationships with museum curators and specialists in Dali's work, providing valuable connections that can enhance a print's provenance and market appeal.
Selling a Salvador Dali Via Auction House
Major auction houses, particularly Christie's, Sotheby's, and Artcurial in Paris, maintain dedicated departments specialising in Surrealist prints and regularly feature Dali's work in their sales. These institutions leverage extensive international networks to attract serious collectors who understand the historical significance of Dali's work. Their specialists possess deep knowledge of Dali's various printing techniques and can properly contextualise works within his creative development. The competitive atmosphere of live auctions can drive prices up, particularly for rare or historically significant prints. Auction houses excel at presenting complex narratives around Dali's technical experimentation and his relationships with various print studios and publishers. However, sellers should consider the substantial fees, typically reaching 25% of the hammer price, along with additional costs for insurance, shipping, and marketing. Success at auction depends heavily on current market conditions and selecting an appropriate sale. The risk of a print failing to meet its reserve price could affect its future market value. Additionally, auction schedules remain inflexible, potentially requiring lengthy waits for appropriate themed sales.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
Selling a Salvador Dali Via Online Marketplace
Online art platforms have expanded selling options but present unique challenges for valuable historical prints like Dali's. Whilst these venues offer potentially quick sales with lower fees, they lack the expertise and security measures necessary for high-value transactions. Without proper authentication protocols and expert guidance, sellers risk undervaluing their work or attracting suspicious buyers. The digital marketplace presents particular challenges for Dali prints due to the complexity of authentication and the prevalence of unauthorised reproductions. Online platforms often struggle to provide the level of security and verification necessary for significant transactions. The inability to properly examine paper quality, printing technique, and condition in person makes most serious collectors hesitant to purchase valuable prints through these channels. If considering an online sale, choose specialised fine art platforms with robust verification processes and experience handling significant 20th century prints. These platforms are more likely to attract serious collectors and provide necessary security measures. However, for rare or particularly valuable Dali prints, traditional auction houses or specialist brokers remain more appropriate venues.
Why Sell Your Salvador Dali with MyArtBroker?
A Dedicated Broker
MyArtBroker offers a distinctive service connecting clients with their dedicated personal broker, ensuring a secure transaction through our online digital platform. Our specialists excel at sourcing direct buyers for consigned prints via our live trading floor, where users within our extensive network can express interest in specific prints and multiples by particular artists, whether they intend to sell, buy, or simply enquire about a specific print. Our team is approachable, passionate, and consistently provides updates on the art market and artists. We guide sellers through a seamless transaction process, establishing a fair market valuation based on realistic sale prices and offering free advice on the optimal timing for selling, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the art market.
Minimise Risk
At MyArtBroker, we prioritise transparency and security in every art sale. Our stringent due diligence process ensures the authentication and verification of artwork provenance, drawing upon our in-house expertise and collaborating with professional external contacts when needed. This approach effectively mitigates the risk of trading counterfeit or stolen art pieces. Additionally, we minimise the risks associated with public sales. While public auctions may seem appealing, unsold prints can harm an artist's market. Private sales eliminate this risk and enable quicker liquidity release for your artwork compared to adhering to strict auction schedules dictating when your work can be offered for sale.
0% Seller's Fees, 100% of the Time
Our team of specialists offers tailored services to procure rare and special edition prints, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the market. As part of our standard practice, we provide complimentary valuations and charge zero seller's fees, setting us apart from other private brokers and traditional auction houses. By minimising overhead costs, we allocate resources towards digital innovation and targeted marketing strategies within our network and house magazine.
When it comes to selling artwork, achieving the best price hinges on accessing a niche market with an established collector community. If you're looking to sell a print, turning to a specialist in the print market, like MyArtBroker, yields superior results compared to approaching an auction house, which caters to broader categories of artwork.
Our Network
Through our live trading floor we empower our network of collectors, fundamentally reshaping the art investment and trading landscape in the digital era. Offering real time market data and insights gleaned from worldwide collectors, we establish value based on convenience, accessibility, and the exceptional level of transparency and security provided to over tens of thousands of users.
Salvador Dali Collection Management with MyPortfolio
In addition to our live trading floor, MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio serves as a collection management system, empowering collectors to curate and oversee their prints and editions collection. This feature grants users access to our print market database, uniquely tied to our proprietary algorithm, SingularityX. This algorithm scans and analyses both public auction and private sales data to determine real time valuations of individual print works, factoring in various aspects such as condition, colour, and other factors affecting value.
Read What Powers MyArtBroker's Technology? In Conversation With Stuart Jamieson, Financial Quant to learn more about our algorithm.
Salvador Dali
84 works
