Alchimie Des Philosophes Appraisal

Salvador Dali 'Le Scarabée' (The Beetle) Etching from the 'Alchimie des Philosophes' Portfolio

This item is a limited edition etching on paper by the renowned surrealist artist Salvador Dali. The artwork features a central beetle motif superimposed over a series of geometric, architectural line drawings, including circles and rectangular grids. The piece is rendered in black and white ink, displaying various printmaking techniques such as fine-line etching, aquatint for textured shading, and precise drypoint. Below the image plate, the work is hand-signed by Salvador Dali in graphite on the lower right. On the lower left, it is marked with the Roman numerals 'XV/XC', indicating it is the 15th print from an edition of 90. A critical feature is the visible dry stamp or blindseal in the lower right margin, which appears to be the 'Dali' watermark or a certified publisher's seal, essential for verifying late-career Dali prints. The paper exhibits a creamy off-white tone consistent with high-quality Arches or Rives vellum frequently used by the artist. The overall condition appears excellent with crisp impression lines and no visible foxing, tears, or significant discoloration. This specific imagery is associated with Dali's later 1970s period, where he explored more scientific and mathematical themes through surrealism.