Salvador DALI (1904-1989), The Cid of Valor (El Cid), 1968.

etching "restrike", high-grain velin paper, 17.5 x 12.5 cm (plate imprint), 38 x 29 cm (sheet) signed on plate l.g.

Salvador Dalí, one of the most famous Surrealists, created many works inspired by literature and culture, including the compositions "El Cid Campeador" or "Don Quichotte." Salvador Dalí's work titled "El Cid Campeador" is an original engraving on paper, created by the artist in 1968. It depicts a portrait of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, known as El Cid or El Campeador, who was a medieval knight and ruler in Spain. El Cid became famous for his service in the armies of both Christian and Muslim rulers. After his death, he became Spain's most famous national hero and the main character of Spain's most important medieval epic, "El Cantar de mio Cid."
The characteristic features of Dalí's style that can be seen in this engraving are the playful lines and varied thickness of the lines, which bring the figure to life and distinguish the background from the foreground. The lines of the drawing are dynamic, suggesting movement and energy, in keeping with El Cid's adventurous nature. Dali often used surrealistic symbols and motifs, which can be interpreted in many ways, depending on the viewer's perspective.The symbolism associated with El Cid refers to his role as a national hero, battlefield champion and figure who transcended the cultural and religious boundaries of his time. His figure has been repeatedly portrayed in literature, music, video games and films, attesting to the lasting influence of his legend on Spanish and world culture.
The work reproduced and described in the most important catalog of Salvador Dali's prints - Albert Field "The Official Catalog of the Graphic Works of Salvador Dali" 1996, item 65-7 A