The Metamorphosis of Narcissus Value Guide

Period
1936-1937
Origin
Spain
Materials
Paper, ink, wood frame, glass

This framed triptych print represents a pivotal moment in Salvador Dalí's career, specifically his 'paranoid-critical' period of the late 1930s. It is highly collectible as a high-quality reproduction of his 1937 mythological exploration of vanity and transformation.

What affects the value of The Metamorphosis of Narcissus?

  • The condition of the paper, specifically looking for any yellowing or foxing that occurs over time.
  • The quality and preservation of the wood frame and glass covering.
  • The clarity of the ink and whether the surrealist color palette remains vibrant or has faded from UV exposure.
  • The overall size of the triptych and its visual impact as a decorative piece.

How to Identify The Metamorphosis of Narcissus?

  • Verify the triptych format which specifically captures the sequential transformation of the Narcissus figure.
  • Check for the characteristic surrealist imagery including the hand holding an egg and the decaying stone figures.
  • Examine the print quality and frame materials to ensure they align with mid-century or later authorized reproduction standards.
  • Look for specific Dalí-esque details such as the precise, dream-like rendering of the Spanish landscape background.

History of The Metamorphosis of Narcissus

Salvador Dalí's 'The Metamorphosis of Narcissus' is a pivotal work from his paranoid-critical period, originally painted in 1937. It is one of his most famous mythological paintings, exploring themes of vanity, transformation, and death through the Greek myth of Narcissus. This triptych print captures key elements from the original, demonstrating the widespread influence and reproducibility of Dalí's iconic imagery.

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