The artwork titled “Canita tuba in Sion (Joel 2:1)” is a creation by Salvador Dali, completed between the years 1964 and 1967. It is a part of the larger collection known as “The Biblia Sacra.” Dali’s work in this piece intersects with the movements of Abstract Expressionism and Symbolism. As a religious painting, it bears the marks of Dali’s unique aesthetic approach and serves as an interpretative visual representation of a biblical theme.
In examining the artwork, one can observe a striking juxtaposition of fluid, gestural forms with a more defined figure. The central figure appears to be blowing a trumpet, which resonates with the title’s reference to sounding a trumpet in Zion, a theme from the biblical Book of Joel. The use of abstract blobs and splatters creates a sense of movement and urgency, which underscores the prophetic and perhaps alarm-sounding narrative suggested by the title. The palette is restricted, predominantly featuring earthy tones punctuated by darker hues, thereby conveying a somber yet dynamic atmosphere. In true Dali fashion, the artwork combines figurative and abstract elements, inviting viewers to engage with the religious and symbolic subject matter through a lens of emotional expression and fluid interpretation.
