Hemerocallis thunbergii elephanter furiosa (Lili Elephant)
Print - Original Lithograph with drypoint etching on Arches paper • Salvador Dalí (Spanish, 1904–1989)
Style & Movement
Surrealism
Medium & Technique
Color lithography and drypoint etching. The technique involves a meticulous combination of traditional botanical illustration styles with surrealist line work and vibrant color overlay.
Creation Period
1972
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 75 x 55 cm (Sheet size); Portrait orientation
Subject Description
Part of the 'Surrealist Flowers' (Flordali) suite. The work depicts a metamorphic lily that merges botanical features with a furious elephant. The trunk of the elephant extends upward as a long, prickly stem, while the flower petals form the ears and the base mimics elephantine feet. It is a classic 'Dalínian' transformation of nature into a monstrous hybrid.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The paper appears bright with no significant foxing visible through the glazing, and the colors remain vibrant with minimal evidence of light-struck fading.
Estimated Market Value
USD $3,500 - $6,000
Auction Estimate
USD $2,500 - $4,500
Provenance History
Published by Jean Lavigne, Paris, 1972. Likely acquired from a commercial art gallery at the time of publication or later through secondary market dealers specializing in 20th-century prints.
Art Historical Significance
The 'Flordali' suite is one of Dalí's most iconic graphic series from his later period. It represents his obsession with the transmutation of objects and his mastery of traditional etchings mixed with avant-garde surrealism. It is a key example of how he applied his 'paranoiac-critical method' to the scientific precision of botanical plates.
Notable Features
Includes the iconic Dalí signature in the lower right and contains the faux-scientific Latin inscription 'Hemerocallis thunbergii elephanter furiosa' printed along the bottom margin. The plate mark from the drypoint etching is visible around the central image.
Condition Issues
Possible minor toning at the mat edges; reflection in photography makes it difficult to assess absolute paper acidity, but no major tears or stains are apparent.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is mounted with acid-free museum-grade materials. Use UV-protective glazing to prevent pigment fading. Maintain a stable relative humidity of 40-50% to prevent paper warping.