Salvador Dalí

Updated October 27, 2026

Title: Tulips with Lip-Shaped Petals on a White Ground Technique: Watercolor on paper Measures: 11 x 8 inches (27.9 x 20.3 cm) Year: Undated Condition: Appears in generally good visual condition based on the photographs supplied, with fresh, saturated color in the blossoms and leaves and crisp black ink contours. The white sheet shows light, even toning and minor soiling toward the edges, consistent with age. No significant tears, losses, or creases are apparent in the available images. Minor surface irregularities and light handling marks may be present. Presented in an ornate gilt frame with molded palmette and scroll ornament, a beaded border, and darkened recesses, showing minor surface wear. Not examined out of the frame. Condition is described from the photographs supplied. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the condition description. Provenance: Transferred privately from the private collection of the Ito family in Kyoto to the private collection of the Kato family in Nagoya. Visual Description: A playful botanical study in vertical format, showing a cluster of four tulip-like blooms rising on curving stems from a base of broad leaves, isolated against a plain white ground. The flowers are rendered in vivid scarlet, crimson, magenta, plum, and flame orange, outlined in black ink, and several of their petals are drawn as stylized pairs of lips, some filled with color and others left as open outlines in red and black that seem to float above the blossoms like flickering flames. At left, a large closed bud in red and coral is marked with a dark lashed seam, recalling a closed eye or mouth; at center, an orange tulip opens into upward-licking lip shapes; at right, a deep magenta bloom and a lower, open rose-red flower with a golden center complete the arrangement. Below, long leaves in emerald, sap green, lime, and olive, highlighted with white, sweep outward and bend back on themselves, while a pale gray stem arcs across the lower center. The transformation of familiar flowers into sensual, anatomical forms reflects the visual language of Surrealism and its interest in metamorphosis and visual double meaning. The lower right bears an inscription reading "Dalí." This composition reflects stylistic elements commonly associated with major figures in modern and contemporary art. For additional information regarding certification, provenance, or any inquiries about this piece or other items, please don't hesitate to contact us through the HiBid platform. A secondary market exists for uncatalogued artworks like this one, which often results in lower estimated and sale prices compared to catalogued artist works. If you have any specific questions or require further assistance in understanding the value, context, or details of this artwork, we are here to help and provide any additional information you may need.

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