When you’re in Figueres, Spain, visiting the Dalí Theatre Museum is a must. But don’t overlook the Dalí Jewels (Dalí-Joies in Catalan). This incredible collection is housed in the same building as the main museum, but it has its own entrance and ticket.
The Dalí Jewels showcase 41 pieces of jewelry designed by the famous surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. These aren’t your typical necklaces and earrings – each piece is a unique work of art that reflects Dalí’s signature style. Alongside the actual jewelry, you can also see Dalí’s original sketches and studies for the designs.
Precious Metals and Glittering Gems
Dalí didn’t skimp on materials when creating these masterpieces. The collection features pieces made from 18-karat gold, platinum, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, pearls, and more. Some of the jewelry even includes functioning timepieces and moving parts.
As you browse the collection, you’ll see that Dalí drew inspiration from a wide range of sources. There are pieces that resemble animals, body parts, religious symbols, and mythological figures. Here are some of the standout works:
Hearts and Flowers
- The Honeycomb Heart (1949): This 18-karat yellow gold heart is studded with diamonds and rubies, creating a honeycomb pattern.
- The Pomegranate Heart (1949): Another heart-shaped piece, this one is crafted from yellow gold and adorned with rubies and diamonds.
Religious Iconography
- Lapis Lazuli Cross (1959): A stunning cross made from lapis lazuli stones in square and rectangular cuts. The cross is surrounded by diamonds and platinum rays, with a gold overlay adorned with ruby droplets representing blood.
- The Gold Cube Cross (1959): Six textured yellow gold squares form the base of this cross, which is surrounded by platinum rays encrusted with diamonds.
- The Angel Cross (1956): This intricate cross features yellow gold, red coral, citrine, and diamonds. It balances on a ball of lapis lazuli with spinning platinum spines at the base.
Nature-Inspired Pieces
- Leaf Veined Hand (1949): A yellow gold hand decorated with an emerald cabochon and pear-shaped rubies.
- Leaf Veined Case (1953): Similar to the hand, this gold case features an emerald cabochon and oval and pear-shaped rubies.
- Swan Lake (1959): An anthropomorphic female swan/fish made from yellow gold rests on aquamarine and yellow beryl stones. Rock crystals, sapphires, and diamonds complete the piece.
Surreal and Fantastical Works
- The Eye of Time (1949): A timepiece shaped like an eye, made from enamel, platinum, diamonds, and a ruby.
- The Persistence of Memory (1949): Inspired by Dalí’s famous painting, this operable watch features black enamel, diamonds, yellow gold, and a Jaeger-LeCoultre mechanism.
- Space Elephant (1961): A gold elephant stands on rough aquamarine, balancing a polished aquamarine column on its back. A small timepiece is embedded in the column, and the elephant is embellished with diamonds, emeralds, and rubies.
Kinetic and Interactive Pieces
- The Royal Heart (1953): This astonishing piece actually beats. It’s made from a variety of gemstones including rubies, amethysts, aquamarines, diamonds, emeralds, garnets, pearls, peridots, and sapphires.
- The Chalice of Life (1965): Jewel-encrusted butterflies flutter their wings while perched on a chalice made of gold and irregularly shaped lapis lazuli.
- Falling Angel (1963): A platinum and gold angel is fastened to a piece of rough quartz. It features ruby ‘flames’, an emerald-cut sapphire, and diamond and sapphire wings that move.
A Feast for the Eyes
Even if you’re not typically interested in jewelry, the Dalí Jewels are captivating. The level of detail and craftsmanship in each piece is remarkable. You could spend hours examining every facet and uncovering hidden symbolism.
The way the collection is displayed is also noteworthy. Each piece is presented like the work of art it is, often paired with Dalí’s preparatory drawings to give insight into his creative process. The lighting and arrangement really highlight the beauty and intricacy of the jewelry.
Dalí’s Enduring Legacy
Visiting the Dalí Jewels is a fascinating complement to the main Dalí Theatre Museum. It provides another dimension to understanding Dalí as an artist and creative force.
Through these pieces, you can see how Dalí’s surrealist vision translated across mediums. The same themes and motifs that appear in his paintings – melting clocks, anthropomorphic forms, religious iconography – are echoed in the jewelry.
It’s also a testament to Dalí’s skill as a designer and his keen eye for detail. Creating jewelry requires a different set of skills than painting, but Dalí’s mastery shines through. He wasn’t just a great artist; he was a true Renaissance man.
Practical Information
Getting There: You’ll find the Dalí Jewels at the corner of Carrer Maria Àngels Vayreda and Pujada del Castell Street. It’s in the same building complex as the Dalí Theatre Museum.
Ticket Info:
- Adult admission to just the Dalí Jewels is 7.00€.
- A combo ticket that includes both the Dalí Jewels and the Dalí Theatre Museum is 14.00€.
Guided Tours: If you want to learn even more about the jewelry and Dalí’s design process, consider a guided tour. The museum offers tours led by expert guides who provide in-depth insights and context. Check the museum website or inquire at the ticket office for tour times and prices.
Gift Shop: After viewing the collection, stop by the gift shop. While you can’t take home the actual Dalí-designed pieces, you can find books, prints, and replicas inspired by Dalí’s jewelry designs. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir.
A Must-See in Figueres
In a town known for its Dalí attractions, the Dalí Jewels still manage to stand out. This collection provides an intimate look at Dalí’s artistry and his boundless creativity.
Whether you’re a die-hard Dalí fan, a jewelry enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates beauty and craftsmanship, the Dalí Jewels are a must-see. Dedicate at least an hour to exploring the collection – though don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to linger longer.
And if you’re worried about missing out on the main Dalí Museum, remember you can buy a combo ticket. This way, you can fully learn about Dalí’s world, from his monumental paintings to his precious jeweled creations.
So when you’re planning your trip to Figueres, make sure to put the Dalí Jewels on your itinerary. It’s a dazzling display that will leave you in awe of Dalí’s genius all over again.
