“The Wounded Bird” is a notable artwork by the acclaimed artist Salvador Dali, created in the year 1928. The piece is executed using oil on cardboard, and showcases the influence of Cubism and Expressionism. The dimensions of this figurative piece are 55 by 65.5 centimeters. It currently resides in the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, located in Tel Aviv, Israel.
The artwork depicts a stylized bird, fractured and seemingly in distress. The background is compartmentalized into sections of muted, earthy tones, with the central figure—a bird—rendered in a contrasting palette. The bird appears to be wounded or in an abnormal state, possibly reflecting a sense of turmoil or struggle. The play of light and shadow, as well as the use of thick outlines and sharp contrasts, emphasize the central figure and evoke a sense of depth and complexity.
The application of cubist techniques is evident in the way forms are broken down into geometric shapes, while the expressionist elements are underscored by the evocative and emotionally charged subject. The textures within the work, particularly the gritty surface on which the bird lies, add another layer of sensory engagement, making it a stimulating visual experience. Given its year of creation, the work aligns with Dali’s early explorations and deviations from mainstream artistic movements, paving the way for his later surrealist endeavors.
