The artwork “Quis ascendet in mentem Domini?” is a religious painting by Salvador Dali, dating from 1964 to 1967. This piece is executed in gouache and forms part of “The Biblia Sacra” series. Dali, renowned for his contributions to Surrealism, here ventures into Abstract Expressionism and Symbolism to explore theological themes.
In this abstract composition, the use of dark and light contrasts to create a sense of depth and mystery. The central figure is shrouded in a shadowy aura, with hints of golden yellow illuminating the body and especially the chest, where a symbol reminiscent of ecclesiastical iconography is visible. This symbol appears to be a combination of the cross and possibly the Chi-Rho emblem, an early Christogram. The figure’s head is enveloped in a lighter, almost glowing halo, suggesting a divine or otherworldly presence. Around the central figure, the background fades from dark to light, with the suggestion of architectural forms—possibly alluding to spiritual edifices such as churches—on the right side of the composition. Dali’s choice of chromatic palette and fluid, amorphous shapes imbues the artwork with a contemplative, spiritual quality that invites the viewer to reflect on the divine and transcendent mysteries it alludes to.
