Dante Alighieri Appraisal

Dali Wood Engraving 'Paolo and Francesca' from The Divine Comedy series

This item is a framed wood engraving, identified as a work by Salvador Dali, likely from his 'Divine Comedy' series, based on the signature 'S.D.' and the style. The artwork depicts two figures, rendered in a fluid, abstract manner, embracing or entwined. One figure is predominantly blue and dark gray, while the other is a warm red and earthy tone. The colors are applied in washes, suggesting a watercolor or similar technique, over a printed wood engraving base. The physical characteristics indicate a print on what appears to be off-white or cream-colored paper. The print itself is matted with a light, possibly pale green or off-white, mat board, which has a clean cut edge around the artwork. The overall frame is constructed from wood with a visible grain, finished in a medium-brown hue, and appears to be in good condition with no significant chips or scratches visible. The wood frame has a simple, classic profile. The artwork is protected by a pane of glass. The signature 'S.D.' is clearly visible in the lower center portion of the artwork, enclosed in a loosely drawn rectangular box. This signature, combined with the style and the provided context of it being a 'Dali wood engraving with COA from Park West Gallery,' strongly suggests its authenticity and origin. The estimated age would align with the publication of The Divine Comedy series by Dali, which was 1960-1964. The craftsmanship of the engraving and coloring appears to be consistently high, typical of print editions overseen by a master artist.