The artwork titled “Surrealist Warriors for a Four-part Screen, Centre Left” was created by Salvador Dali circa 1934. This oil on canvas is an exemplar of the Surrealism movement and can be categorized within the genre of battle painting. The piece offers a glimpse into Dali’s imaginative interpretation of martial themes through the surrealist lens.
In this depiction, the artwork showcases an array of figures engaged in what appears to be a skirmish or battle. The central focus is on two large, rearing horses, drawn with fluid, undulating lines that convey movement and frenetic energy. The riders brandish weapons, and their postures suggest the heat of combat. In the background, there are additional figures, some of which appear to be on horseback, while others seem to be standing on the ground, enhancing the sense of a larger conflict unfolding.
The surreal nature of the piece is emphasized by the abstracted and exaggerated forms of the horses and warriors, eschewing realistic proportions and perspectives. There is a dreamlike quality to the scene, in typical Dali fashion, that plays with the traditional imagery of battle paintings. The setting includes sparse, sketch-like representations of the landscape and architecture, giving a sense of place without overwhelming the main subjects. The signature “D.A.” at the bottom right confirms Dali’s authorship of this evocative work. The piece remains a testament to the artist’s ability to translate the chaos and drama of warfare into the surreal visual language that he is famed for.
