Salvador Dalí silver medals of The Ten Commandments

This rare collection of large, pure silver medals was designed in Spain in 1975, by Salvador Dali (Spanish, 1904-1989), a renowned artist who played a fundamental role in the Surrealist movement popular in the 20th century.

The set comprises of ten medals, each one depicting one of the Ten Commandments. Important in Christianity and Judaism, the principles proclaimed in this important religious writing relate to ethics and worship. A design features on both sides of the medals.

The front is illustrated with Dali’s interpretation of one of the Ten Commandments such as ‘Thou shalt have no other gods before me’ or ‘Thou shalt not steal’. The reverse is further adorned with another of Dali’s surrealist illustrations related to the commandments. The artist’s signature is present on both sides of the medal, the front in a smaller handwritten font, while the reverse in a larger surrealist composition accompanied by ‘1975’, signifying the production date. Intricate details such as animal skin textures are masterfully executed, testifying to the outstanding quality of the pieces.

Each medal also bears a ‘999.9’ mark, indicating the purity of the silver.

The Surrealist style is characterised by out of this world imagery. Works of art in this style are filled with unconventional, dream-like, and unexpected visuals which are intertwined with real-life experiences. Salvador Dali explored his subconscious imagery to portray common and well-known ideas, such as the Ten Commandments in unknown, mysterious, and fascinating ways.

This limited edition Salvador Dali collection is a superb example of the artist’s phenomenal artistic skills and would make an exceptional addition to one’s collection of intriguing works of art.

Total weight of all pieces is approximately 4,500 grammes.