Lot Details

Description

Alighieri Dante (1265 - 1321). La Divina Commedia. Illustrazioni di Dalì. Verona: Arti e Scienze, Salani. 1964. Copy D of an edition limited to 25 copies.

An edition of exceptional rarity and remarkable typographic refinement, this is Salvador Dalí's illustrated Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, presented here in an imposing set of nine volumes accompanied by 365 plates. The project represents one of the most celebrated and ambitious twentieth century interpretations of Dante's masterpiece, in which Dalí's visionary and symbolic imagination engages with the poetic and allegorical dimensions of the medieval epic. The volumes belong to a special edition of only fortyfour copies, produced under the direction of the renowned typographer and publisher Giovanni Mardersteig at the celebrated Officina Bodoni in Verona, one of the twentieth century's most distinguished private presses, internationally acclaimed for the extraordinary quality of its editions. The text is printed on fine Japanese handmade Kaji Torinoko paper, prized for its silky texture, refined fibres, and its exceptional ability to enhance the crispness of letterpress printing. The illustrative plates, printed on Rives paper, are individually mounted in elegant Japanese paper mats, a presentation that both enhances their visual impact and ensures superior preservation. The iconographic programme offers a surrealist interpretation of the visionary universe of the Divine Comedy, with images of extraordinary symbolic and chromatic intensity that provide an original reading of the Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. In addition to the six volumes containing the text of the three canticles, the edition includes three supplementary volumes of outstanding bibliographical and artistic interest: one containing an additional series of colour plates, another presenting the complete suite of black and white engraved plates, and a third documenting the successive printing stages of Plate No. 16 of the Inferno, offering a rare insight into the technical and creative process behind Dalí's illustrations.

The present copy is Copy D, one of the twentyfive lettered copies (A–Z), forming part of the total edition of fortyfour copies printed on Japanese paper.

The complete illustrative apparatus comprises 365 plates, distributed as follows:

100 numbered plates inserted into the six text volumes, each retaining its original caption slip;

100 additional numbered colour plates;

100 black and white engraved plates;

65 progressive proof plates illustrating the successive stages in the development and printing of a single image.

Dimensions

In-folio (13,54x10,63in)

Provenience

Private collection

Condition

Some plates with light browning and occasional minor foxing. Each volume preserved in its original wrappers, housed in a portfolio and leather slipcase. Minor wear.

Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers must understand that any statement made by Coradi Rare Finds is merely a subjective opinion.