AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a color lithograph on paper attributed to the Spanish Surrealist master Salvador Dalí, specifically from his 'Bible Sacred' or related religious suites from the mid-1960s to 1970s. The artwork depicts a celestial-themed interpretation of the Adoration of the Magi, characterized by bold primary colors, most notably a deep ultramarine blue sky and a vibrant yellow-to-green trail following a shooting star in the upper register. Figures of the Magi on horseback are rendered in a loose, expressive style with dark, gestural outlines. The piece is housed in a decorative stepped gilt-wood frame with a metallic gold finish and protected by a large cream-colored mat. A signature, characteristic of Dalí’s hand, is visible in the lower right margin, while an edition number or title appears to be inscribed in the lower left/center margin. The print exhibits typical qualities of high-end mid-century lithography, including layered ink saturation and sharp color transitions. The condition appears fair to good via visual inspection; the frame shows minor surface abrasions consistent with age, and there is a slight possibility of light-induced fading or mat burn, though the colors remain largely punchy. Professional appraisal would require an out-of-frame inspection to confirm the presence of a watermark (such as Arches or Rives) and to verify the authenticity of the signature.

Upon visual evaluation of the 'L'Adoration des Rois' lithograph, I find the piece consistent with Salvador Dalí’s mid-century religious suites, notably those printed for the 'Biblia Sacra' collection (1964-1967). The vibrant ultramarine and heavy gestural lines are hallmarks of Dalí’s later graphic works. The condition appears stable, though the cream-colored matting suggests a risk of acidity that could lead to 'mat burn' on the paper edges over time. The saturation of the primary yellows and blues indicates minimal UV degradation, though slight fading is common in prints from this era. The market for Dalí multiples is currently saturated with late-career editions and posthumous printings, which creates a tiered valuation system. Authentic 'Biblia Sacra' lithographs typically realize between $1,000 and $2,500 depending on the specific plate and whether they are pencil-signed versus plate-signed. This example includes a signature in the lower right, which, if verified as hand-signed, places it in the upper-mid range of market desirability. However, I must state several limitations: this appraisal is based on photographic evidence only. To confirm the value, an out-of-frame inspection is mandatory to identify the watermark (Arches or Rives BFK) and to verify if the signature is in graphite or integrated into the print strike. Additionally, a 'Field of Crowns' embossed seal or specific provenance from the publisher Rizzoli would be required to differentiate this from later 'after' editions. Final value is contingent upon the authenticity of the signature and the absence of hidden foxes or tape residue on the sheet's verso.