This large, bautiful and heavy (almost 10lbs.) volume, is in my opinion, the most comprehensive Volume on Dali available. I own at least a dozen Books, Catalogs and Biographies on Dali, and this is by far the best for the following reasons:1.) Lavishly produced and well bound in Italy by a reputable Publisher of Art Books, Abrams.
2.) The text is by Robert Descharnes, an Art Historian, and is translated by Eleanor R. Morse, both of whom had long personal and professional associations, and also friendships with Dali. The brief text avoids "interpretations" of both Man and Art, but concentrates on descriptive information instead.
3.) The organization of each chronological section is well thought out. Each begins with brief texts and photographs of Dali, Gala, his friends and contemporaries. Also included are rare photographs of posters, contemporary reviews, articles, sources etc.
4.) Included are many excellent works not found elsewhere, and not only paintings, but also sculpture, montages, Jewelry and other "objects".
5.) For its quality and size, this book was, quite surprisingly, reasonably priced.
6.) Lastly, and most importantly, the reproductions of the paintings are excellent in color and quality. I can lay several of my Dali books side by side, and look at the same painting, and it will look slightly different in each one. I think the truest colors are in this book. What use is it getting a cheaper Book of Paintings if the colors are off? I think this is something all too often ignored. Always go for the best quality in Art Books.
Until a reasonably priced and edited Catalogue Raisonne becomes available, this is the definitive Dali Book to get.
