Ancient books Salvador Dalí: illustrated books, writings and albums

We examine each volume, identify editions and illustration methods, and describe condition meticulously, as large-format bound albums often deteriorate over time.

Dalí as illustrator: from Les Chants de Maldoror to the Divine Comedy

Dalí’s first major illustrated book was Les Chants de Maldoror by Lautréamont (Skira, 1934), with forty-two original etchings—one of the high points of Surrealist bookmaking. After the war came Don Quichotte (Joseph Foret, 1957), Dante’s Divine Comedy (Les Heures Claires, 1959–1963, one hundred colour woodcuts after his watercolours), Alice au pays des merveilles (Maecenas Press, 1969), Les Dîners de Gala, and Les Vins de Gala, sumptuously illustrated cookery and wine books.

The gap between deluxe editions (original engravings, numbered copies, signed) and trade editions (reproductions) is substantial. Many 1960s and 1970s titles spawned numerous “suites” and prints whose authenticity is sometimes disputed; we never make claims without evidence.

Dalí the writer

Dalí wrote as prolifically as he painted: La Vie secrète de Salvador Dalí (1942 in English, 1952 in French), Visages cachés, his sole novel (1944, translated into French in 1973), Journal d’un génie (1964), Les Cocus du vieil art moderne, Dalí par Dalí, and Surrealist essays from the 1930s published in the movement’s journals (Le Surréalisme au service de la révolution, Minotaure). The original French editions, issued by La Table Ronde, Stock, Fasquelle, or Grasset, remain affordable and naturally complement any Surrealist library.

The Draeger albums and catalogues

Dalí de Draeger, published in 1968 by Le Soleil Noir and printed by Draeger, is the album that brought Dalí into drawing rooms: large format, publisher’s binding, slipcase or dust-jacket depending on the issue. Several editions and languages exist; the presence of the slipcase and jacket, the absence of loose pages, and the vibrancy of the colours determine value. Collectors also seek exhibition catalogues and collection catalogues (such as the 1917–1970 Morse collection of ninety-three oils) to document the œuvre.

Pitfalls to avoid

Three precautions. First, do not confuse a reproduction with an original print: check the justification of the print run, the printer, and the references in catalogues (Michler and Löpsinger for prints). Next, be wary of signatures: blank signed sheets circulated in the 1980s, and a signature alone does not authenticate anything. Finally, for albums, insist on completeness (plates, slipcase, jacket) and good condition: we note rounded corners, rubbed jackets, and cracked slipcases.

Features of our items

Our current stock includes Dalí de Draeger (Le Soleil Noir, 1968), Les Vins de Gala (Draeger), the novel Visages cachés, as well as an English-language collection catalogue featuring ninety-three oils from 1917 to 1970. Each item is described with details of binding, publisher’s accessories, and condition.

How we can assist you

Looking for an illustrated edition, a complete album, or a Dalí text in original edition? Leave your address on this page (“Notify me”) to be alerted to every new listing. We appraise and purchase illustrated books by Dalí, complete albums, and Surrealist sets. Free delivery in France, reinforced packaging, 14-day return policy.

Frequently asked questions

Does Dalí de Draeger hold value?

Yes, depending on the edition and condition: a complete copy, with slipcase and jacket, free of loose pages or faded colours, is highly sought after. Damaged copies are common and command much lower prices.

How to identify an original Dalí print?

Check the justification of the print run, the printer’s name, the paper, and the references in standard catalogues (Michler and Löpsinger). A pencil signature is insufficient: blank signed sheets were circulated.

Which Dalí texts exist in original French editions?

La Vie secrète (La Table Ronde, 1952), Journal d'un génie (1964), Visages cachés (Stock, 1973), Les Cocus du vieil art moderne (Fasquelle, 1956), among others. These are accessible originals that enhance any Surrealist library.

Do you purchase illustrated books by Dalí?

Yes. Send us photographs of the title page, the justification, and a few plates: we will provide an appraisal and, if you wish, a purchase offer.

To go further

Dalí cannot be understood without the movement that welcomed him and then excluded him: André Breton and the surrealist reviews, Guillaume Apollinaire, its precursor, and Picasso, the other Spanish giant of the century. The books of the movement are gathered in the Surrealism section, while the livres de peintre are in the Fine Books, Art and Bindings section.

Do you own Dalí books? We appraise and buy them.