The artwork titled “Coupes 6” was created by the renowned artist Salvador Dali in the year 1925. Dali, a prominent figure associated with the Surrealism movement, chose the genre of portrait to execute this work. Surrealism is known for its exploration of the unconscious mind and dream-like visuals, often combining unexpected and fantastical elements with realistic ones.
In “Coupes 6”, we observe a traditional portrait composition that features two figures who appear to be a woman and a child seated together intimately. They are rendered with a sense of realism and detail that is characteristic of traditional portraiture. The woman’s attire is elaborate, with a multi-patterned, flowing dress that captures the eye, while the child, also finely dressed, is seated closely by her side.
Interestingly, the artwork exhibits a blend of classical portraiture with surreal elements. A distinctive feature is the presence of an additional image, which appears to be a framed picture, hanging above the two figures. This smaller picture within the artwork contrasts sharply with the realistic portrayal of the subjects below, offering a glimpse into Dali’s surrealist influence. It depicts abstract forms that could possibly be interpreted as mechanical or organic, set against a dark background, and this juxtaposition creates a dreamlike quality that disrupts the otherwise traditional scene.
The backdrop is executed with a wash of soft, ethereal blues, which fades gently into the plain surrounding paper, giving the composition an atmospheric and somewhat otherworldly impression. Finally, Dali’s signature can be seen at the bottom right, adding to the authenticity and personal touch of the artwork.
