Salvador Dalí

Piccadilly Gallery, London (Sale: Sotheby Parke Bernet, London, June 28 1978, lot 215)
Acquired at the above sale by the present owner

Work is in very good condition. Executed on cream wove paper. Hinged to mat at upper corners and in three spots along side edges. Some cracking in the thickest pigments (deep blue and red). There are several tiny fragments of paper affixed beneath the red figure at lower right. Colors are bright and fresh.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Executed in 1968, this work represents scene III from the operatic tragedy Tancrède written by André Campra. The present work shows the scales, symbolizing choice, before Tancrède who is seen in the foreground, his head and armour covered with fresh blood. To the right of Tancrède in red is the character of Clorinde, who represents pain and the desire to die and on his left is Pierre le Solitaire, in white, who acts as a representation of God or duty. The three figures are shrouded under a Godly cloak with light reflecting upon it from above. The spiritual dilemma of the main character is further heightened by Dalí's use of gold paint surrounding the central scene offering an omnipresent and ubiquitous feel to the setting.