The artwork “Gala Contemplating the Mediterranean Sea which at Twenty Meters Becomes the Portrait of Abraham Lincoln (Homage to Rothko)” is a noteworthy creation by Salvador Dali, dating back to 1954. Crafted with oil on canvas, Dali executed this piece during a period typically associated with his fascination with science, religion, and history. Although the artwork is often thought to be rooted in Surrealism due to Dali’s most common association with that movement, the realistic treatment of the figure portrayed and attention to detail might prompt some to mistakenly classify it under Realism. Its genre aligns with portraiture, though the work is multifaceted and incorporates elements beyond traditional portraiture.
The artwork portrays Gala, Dali’s muse and wife, from behind, gazing into the distance. Her poised figure is set against a stark, neutral background, which contrasts with the intricate detail of her hair and the vibrant folds of her golden shawl. Although this particular artwork is a representation of Gala, it is essential to recognize that Dali’s broader oeuvre often includes more fantastical and complex compositions than this seemingly straightforward portrait might suggest. Notably, the title reference to the Mediterranean Sea and Abraham Lincoln alludes to Dali’s interest in optical illusion and the double images he frequently incorporated into his work, something not immediately visible in the representation provided.
