What is the estimated value of this Salvador Dalí lithograph?

The estimated market value for this Salvador Dalí 'Tauromachie aux papillons' color lithograph is between $800 and $1,200. This valuation reflects the print's fair condition, specifically noticeable paper toning and color fading, which significantly reduce its aesthetic appeal and marketability. It also accounts for an unresolved scholarly dispute regarding the authenticity of this specific print edition.

What era/period is this Salvador Dalí lithograph from?

This Salvador Dalí 'Tauromachie aux papillons' lithograph was created circa 1972, placing it in the Late 20th Century. During this period, Dalí was highly prolific in producing graphic works, making his surrealist vision accessible to a broader audience. The print exemplifies his continued fascination with Spanish cultural themes, such as bullfighting, infused with his signature surrealist elements.

What condition is this item in, and how does it impact its value?

This Salvador Dalí lithograph is in Fair condition. The most significant issues are pervasive, uniform paper toning (yellowing/browning) and noticeable fading of the vibrant lithographic inks. While there are no tears or creases, these condition defects substantially detract from the print's visual impact and reduce its market value by an estimated 30-50% compared to a pristine example.

Where should I sell this Salvador Dalí 'Tauromachie aux papillons' print?

Given its fair condition and authenticity questions, it is strongly recommended to sell this print within the United States. A mid-tier specialist auction house, such as Heritage Auctions' Prints & Multiples Showcase, or a dedicated local fine art dealer like Meyer Fine Art, Inc., would be suitable. This approach avoids high international shipping costs and targets a relevant collector base.

Is the authenticity of this Salvador Dalí print confirmed?

The authenticity of this specific print edition, 'Tauromachie aux papillons,' is subject to a scholarly dispute. While it is documented in the European Michler & Löpsinger catalogue raisonné (M&L 1358), it is not recognized by the American authority Albert Field in his 'Official Catalog of the Graphic Works of Salvador Dalí.' This unresolved conflict creates uncertainty and impacts its market acceptance.

Salvador Dalí, 'Tauromachie aux papillons' (Bullfight with Butterflies), Color Lithograph with Embossing, c. 1972

Estimated value: $800 - $1,200. Salvador Dalí, 'Tauromachie aux papillons' (Bullfight with Butterflies), Color Lithograph with Embossing, c. 1972 (Late 20th Century) — a researched valuation with cited comparable sales in Fine Art, from findthevalueof.com.

About this item

This lithograph, 'Tauromachie aux papillons,' is a powerful example of Salvador Dalí's work from the early 1970s, a period when the world-famous artist was prolifically creating prints to make his unique vision more accessible. The piece captures Dalí's lifelong fascination with his native Spain's cultural traditions, particularly the dramatic spectacle of the bullfight. Here, he transforms the violent ritual into a surreal dreamscape. The raw power and aggression of the bull are juxtaposed with the delicate, ephemeral beauty of butterflies—a recurring symbol in Dalí's work for the soul, transformation, and fleetingness. This illogical pairing is the essence of Surrealism, creating a visual paradox that invites contemplation on life and death, brutality and beauty. Owning this print connects one to the later career of a 20th-century master and his singular ability to mine the subconscious for unforgettable imagery.

How the value was reached

The market for this print includes dealer asking prices between $2,000 and $3,000 for examples in good condition. This valuation has been significantly adjusted downward to reflect this print's 'Fair' condition, specifically the severe paper toning and color fading, which reduce its value by at least 30-50%. The valuation is further tempered by the unresolved scholarly debate over the edition's authenticity. Based on these factors, a pre-sale auction estimate of $800 - $1,200 is appropriate. We recommend a reserve price of $600. After a typical seller's commission of 15%, the net proceeds to the seller would be approximately $680 - $1,020.

Comparable sales

The item is a "Certified Salvador Dali - Tauromachie (Bullfight I) Original Lithograph #II" numbered 159/300, signed by Salvador Dali. It was published by Phyllis and Sidney Lucas in 1966 and includes a certificate from Dali's manager, Carlos Alemany. — sold for — (eBay), 1966
Color lithograph on Arches paper. Artist proof aside of the edition of 250. Hand signed in pencil. Ref. Michler-Lopsinger 1358. Rare colorful lithograph representing one of the artist's most cherished themes: bullfighting. In a swirl of colors, the work represents a bull in the foreground and some bullfighters in the background. At the top of the artwork, a representation of butterflies, to which — sold for $2,095.32 (1stDibs), 1972
Tauromachie Aux Papillons is a colored lithograph realized by the Surrealist artist Salvador Dalí in the 1970s. The artwork is hand-signed in charcoal on the lower right. Signed and annotated BAT (in French bon à tirer, or 'ready to print'). The complete edition includes 250 prints. Rare colorful lithograph representing one of the artist's most cherished themes: bullfighting. In a swirl of colors, — sold for $2,670.32 (1stDibs), 1970

Expert notes

This print is identified as 'Tauromachie aux papillons' by Salvador Dalí and is listed in the European Michler & Löpsinger catalogue raisonné. However, prospective buyers should be aware that this edition is not recognized in the catalogue by the American authority Albert Field, which can affect its marketability. The print also has significant condition issues (paper toning, color fading). Before selling, we recommend having the paper examined out of the frame for a watermark, which can help confirm the period of production.