Salvador Dalí (1904-1989)

The late Robert Descharnes confirmed the authenticity of this work in 1997.
Executed in 1949, Lago de Garda is one from a series of four watercolours and gouaches commissioned from the artist by a noted philanthropist and art collector Albert Davis Lasker in 1948. Given by Lasker as a token of gratitude to Dr Robert F. Loeb, an avid admirer of Salvador Dalí’s œuvre, the series depicts various landmark locations in Italy – the country Dr Loeb considered to be his favourite. The present lot portrays the shores of lake Garda, a renowned holiday destination in Northern Italy.
Blue, green and purple hues of this composition convey an atmosphere of a tranquil summer’s day. Surrounded by mountains, the crystal clear waters are disturbed only by a gentle breeze and a passing sailing boat. In the background, rays of sunshine illuminate the landscape with a solitary tower on a distant mountain top. Showcasing Dalí’s talent as a draughtsman, the foreground of the scene is dominated by a detailed representation of luscious, colourful foliage featuring various seasonal wild flowers and weeds. A treasured possession, the present work remained in the collection of Dr Loeb and his descendants for almost fifty years.