Oscar Dominguez

Private Collection, Belgium (acquired directly from the artist in the 1950s)
Thence by descent to the present owner

The canvas is not lined and there do not appear to be any signs of retouching visible under UV light. There is a small spot of paint loss to the lower part of the rainbow, a further few tiny surface losses to the unicorn's body to the right of the rainbow, and two pin-sized paint losses to the background towards the lower left corner. There is some stable paint shrinkage to parts of the black and blue pigments, and some minor frame abrasion to parts of the extreme edges. Otherwise, this work is in overall good condition. Colours: overall fairly accurate in the printed catalogue, though the red is more intense in the original.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Unicornio is an image of great intensity and rich with symbolism. It depicts a wonderfully ambiguous hybrid creature: the unicorn as the symbol of chastity is played against the virility and fertility associated with the animal’s more bull-like proportions and heavy hooves. With its strong tail thrashing upwards and the hairs of its mane standing on end, this robust animal is an extraordinary image of unflinching power. The rainbow that sweeps across the image evokes an otherworldly, dreamlike atmosphere, echoed by the daring red of the body and purple of the hooves. These deep and saturated tones only serve to accentuate the dazzling white horn, simultaneously delicate and dangerous.

The father of the present owner counted Dominguez and other key surrealist artists as good friends, and this work has never before appeared on the market.