The Reign of Penitents – Salvador Dalí Divine Comedy (Limited Edition 55/100, Signed)

Medium: Wood Engraving on Paper

Edition: 55/100 (Limited Edition)

Signatures: Hand-signed by Salvador Dalí + Master Engraver

Size: 25.5 x 18 cm

Certificate of Authenticity: Available upon request

Salvador Dalí (1904–1989) was a pioneering surrealist artist known for his dreamlike imagery, melting clocks, and masterful technical precision. His work explores the subconscious, symbolism, and religious themes, making him one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

Dalí’s interpretation of The Divine Comedy is a fusion of his surrealist vision and Dante’s poetic masterpiece, bringing new depth to the epic journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven.

Background of The Divine Comedy and Why Dalí Drew It

The Divine Comedy is an epic poem by Dante Alighieri, written in the early 14th century, that describes Dante's journey through Hell (Inferno), Purgatory (Purgatorio), and Heaven (Paradiso).

Originally commissioned by the Italian government in 1950 to celebrate Dante’s 700th birth anniversary, Salvador Dalí’s Divine Comedy series was meant to be a monumental artistic tribute to the legendary poet. However, controversy arose as some Italians opposed a Spanish artist illustrating their national literary treasure.

Despite the cancellation of the government’s sponsorship, Dalí continued working on the project, producing 100 stunning wood engravings, each corresponding to a canto from Dante’s poem. Using hand-carved woodblocks to replicate his intricate watercolors, these illustrations blend divine beauty with Dalí’s signature surrealism, making them one of the most unique interpretations of Dante’s work.

Dalí’s illustrations reimagine Dante’s journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise with his signature surrealist approach. Each scene is infused with distorted figures, dreamlike landscapes, and psychological symbolism. Some key interpretations include:

Inferno (Hell) – Dalí’s depiction of Hell is filled with twisted, nightmarish figures, emphasizing the torment and punishment of sinners.

Purgatorio (Purgatory) – Here, Dalí often portrays figures in transitional states, emphasizing suffering mixed with hope.

Paradiso (Heaven) – His celestial scenes become ethereal, dreamlike, and abstract, filled with divine light and floating figures.

Each painting captures the emotional intensity of Dante’s journey, from the horror of Hell to the sublime beauty of Heaven.

Shipping Time: Orders ship within 7 working days.

Returns: Accepted within 14 days of delivery. However, the return shipping fee will be deducted from the refund.