A rare painting by Salvador Dali has been uncovered during a routine house clearance in Cambridge and is scheduled to be auctioned in October. The artwork is estimated to fetch up to £30,000 ($40,042.35), a remarkable increase from its original purchase price of just £150 ($200.29).
The artwork, known as “Vecchio Sultano,” is a mixed media creation that combines watercolour and felt-tip techniques. It has recently received authentication as an original piece by the renowned Surrealist artist. The image depicts a moment from “The Arabian Nights,” a component of a 1960s project aimed at creating 500 illustrations inspired by Middle Eastern folktales.
The initiative, initially introduced as a bible commission by Italian benefactors Giuseppe and Mara Albaretto, shifted focus to 1,001 Nights at the behest of Dali. Out of the initial plan for 500, only 100 were ultimately completed.
It is reported that the piece likely originated from the 50 illustrations held by the publishers Rizzoli, a significant number of which were later damaged or lost. The Albarettos retained the remaining half and subsequently passed it down to their daughter, Christina, who is also Dali’s goddaughter.
Gabrielle Downie, representing the auction house Cheffins, described the discovery as “a genuine rediscovery of a work by one of the most famous artists in the world.” The painting’s earlier exhibition at Sotheby’s in the 1990s, where it was credited entirely to Dali, highlights the significance of its recent loss and subsequent reauthentication of provenance, marking a noteworthy development in the art community.
“This work presents a unique perspective on Dali’s artistic approach,” Downie remarked. “The resurgence of such a rediscovery after decades is undeniably exciting.”
Renowned Dali expert Nicolas Descharnes has certified the artwork, which is set to be auctioned by Cheffins on October 23.
