Poems of Mao Tse Toung

Salvador Dalí (1904–1989)
Poèmes de Mao-Tse-Toung
Paris, Éditions Argillet, 1967
A complete and particularly refined example of this important portfolio illustrated by Salvador Dalí and published by Éditions Argillet in Paris in 1967, during one of the most accomplished phases of the artist’s graphic production. Conceived as a cohesive dialogue between image and text, the work brings together Dalí’s mature graphic language with the French translation of Mao Tse-Toung’s poems, resulting in a portfolio of strong conceptual and visual unity.
The suite comprises eight original engravings with drypoint, printed hors-texte on fine Arches wove paper, each sheet bearing the artist’s embossed signature. The plates are executed with remarkable precision and clarity, combining controlled line with a distinctive expressive quality characteristic of Dalí’s late 1960s work.
This example is fully signed and numbered by hand, the justification page bearing the inscription “Exemplaire No. 214” together with Salvador Dalí’s autograph signature in pencil. It belongs to the Arches blanc edition, numbered from 79 to 229, forming part of the principal signed issue of the publication, as detailed in the justification. Each individual engraving is further authenticated by Dalí’s blindstamp, confirming the originality of the suite.
The portfolio is complete in all its elements as issued, including the title page, full French text, signed and numbered justification, the complete set of eight engravings, the original printed wrapper with embossed Chinese calligraphy, and the original cloth-covered portfolio box with Dalí’s embossed signature. The work is referenced in Michler & Löpsinger 209–216 and Field 67-1.
Presented in a format of 403 × 302 mm, this example stands out for its exceptional state of preservation. The sheets remain notably fresh, clean and well-preserved, with strong impressions and full margins throughout. The justification page is clear, with the handwritten numbering and signature well retained. The overall condition can be described as mint for the contents, with only minor signs of wear to the outer portfolio box, entirely consistent with careful handling and storage.
Poèmes de Mao-Tse-Toung occupies a distinctive position within Dalí’s graphic œuvre, reflecting a period of technical refinement and close collaboration with Éditions Argillet. Complete examples, fully signed and preserved in such condition, remain increasingly desirable, particularly when retaining their original presentation and all constituent elements intact.