The artwork titled “Remorse, or Sphinx Embedded in the Sand” was created by the renowned artist Salvador Dali in 1931. This piece is a prime example of the Surrealism art movement, known for its exploration of the unconscious mind and dream-like scenes. The artwork is of modest dimensions, measuring 19.1 x 26.9 cm, and falls within the genre of symbolic painting. It is part of the collection at the Broad MSU (Michigan State University) located in East Lansing, MI, US.
In the artwork, the central focus is on a figure which resembles a sphinx with a human-like upper body and an elongated shadow stretching into the foreground, symbolizing perhaps the elongation of time or the presence of regret as indicated by the title. Its face is obscured, turned away from the viewer and resting in a contemplative or mournful gesture. In the background, surreal landscapes conjure images of desolation and otherworldliness, with craggy cliffs and a serene sky that might suggest a dream state or an altered reality. The use of light and shadow, combined with the ambiguous, distorted forms, emphasizes the ethereal and thought-provoking nature of the artwork, encouraging viewers to reflect on the deeper meanings and emotions that might be embedded within the canvas.
