Lobster Telephone: Salvador Dalí’s Surrealist Masterpiece
Salvador Dalí, the eccentric and visionary Spanish surrealist, had an unparalleled ability to transform everyday objects into works of art that challenge perception and ignite the imagination. One of his most famous and curious works is the Lobster Telephone, an intriguing sculpture that fuses the form of a traditional telephone with a lobster perched upon the receiver. But what does this peculiar creation signify? How many Lobster Telephones did Dalí make, and how much are they worth today? More importantly, where can you see them? Let’s dive deep into the surreal world of Dalí and uncover the mysteries behind this bizarre yet fascinating object.
The Meaning Behind the Lobster Telephone
To understand the meaning of the Lobster Telephone, one must first delve into the surrealist movement, of which Dalí was a prominent figure. Surrealism, born in the early 20th century, was heavily influenced by Sigmund Freud’s theories on dreams, the subconscious, and the irrational connections between objects and ideas. Dalí, in particular, was obsessed with Freudian symbolism and often incorporated hidden meanings and erotic undertones into his work.
The Lobster Telephone, also known as the Aphrodisiac Telephone, combines two seemingly unrelated objects, yet within Dalí’s dreamlike logic, they share deep connections. The telephone, a device associated with communication, and the lobster, a sea creature often depicted in Dalí’s paintings, come together to create an uncanny, humorous, and somewhat unsettling object.
Dalí had a peculiar fascination with lobsters. He frequently used them as symbols in his art, linking them to themes of sexuality and desire. In particular, the juxtaposition of a lobster and a telephone is thought to reflect Dalí’s preoccupation with the idea of tactile and erotic communication. This interpretation is further supported by the fact that he had once designed a dress for the socialite Wallis Simpson featuring a giant lobster, reinforcing his use of the crustacean as a symbol of sensuality.
Dalí himself once famously remarked: “When I telephone, I see lobsters. They frighten me.” This statement suggests that the Lobster Telephone is not merely an absurd object but a manifestation of Dalí’s subconscious fears and desires.
How Many Lobster Telephones Did Dalí Create?
Dalí created a total of eleven Lobster Telephones in 1936 as part of a commission by the English poet and collector Edward James, a key patron of the surrealist movement. These sculptures were produced in two different color schemes: a red lobster on a white telephone and a red lobster on a black telephone.
Edward James, who played a crucial role in supporting Dalí’s career, was known for his eccentric taste in surrealist art. He filled his home with unusual creations, including the Lobster Telephone, which perfectly embodied the dreamlike aesthetic championed by surrealist artists.
Each Lobster Telephone is nearly identical, yet they remain unique due to their hand-assembled nature and minor variations in production. These sculptures were not meant to be mere decorative items but rather provocative surrealist statements that challenged conventional ideas of art and functionality.
How Much is a Lobster Telephone Worth?
Given their rarity and iconic status, Lobster Telephones have become highly valuable pieces of art. When they appear at auction, they command significant sums. The price of a Lobster Telephone can vary depending on its provenance, condition, and market demand.
In recent years, some Lobster Telephones have been sold for substantial amounts. In 2016, one was auctioned at Christie’s and fetched an astounding $853,000. Given the continued interest in Dalí and surrealist art, it is likely that the value of these sculptures will only increase over time.
The financial worth of the Lobster Telephone is not only in its material rarity but also in its cultural significance. As a quintessential surrealist object, it holds a unique place in art history, making it a prized possession for collectors and museums alike.
Where Can You See Dalí’s Lobster Telephone?
Despite their small number, several Lobster Telephones are housed in major museums and collections around the world. If you want to see one in person, here are some key locations:
- The Tate Modern, London – One of the most famous Lobster Telephones is in the collection of the Tate Modern, where it remains a popular exhibit.
- The Salvador Dalí Museum, St. Petersburg, Florida – This museum houses a rich collection of Dalí’s works, including one of the Lobster Telephones.
- The National Galleries of Scotland, Edinburgh – Another Lobster Telephone resides in Scotland, where visitors can marvel at its surreal charm.
- Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Rotterdam – This Dutch museum also owns one of these iconic surrealist objects.
- The Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minnesota – This museum proudly displays one of Dalí’s Lobster Telephones.
- West Dean College, England – Edward James’ former residence contains several surrealist pieces, including a Lobster Telephone.
These institutions ensure that Dalí’s work remains accessible to the public, allowing visitors to appreciate the bizarre and brilliant mind of one of surrealism’s greatest artists.
The Enduring Fascination of the Lobster Telephone
The Lobster Telephone is more than just an eccentric piece of art; it is a testament to Dalí’s ability to transform ordinary objects into extraordinary statements. By merging a telephone with a lobster, he invites viewers to question reality, dream beyond the ordinary, and embrace the strange.
As surrealist art continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the Lobster Telephone remains a powerful symbol of Dalí’s genius and the movement’s playful yet profound approach to the subconscious. Whether viewed as a commentary on communication, a Freudian symbol of desire, or simply an absurdist joke, the Lobster Telephone remains one of the most iconic and memorable surrealist objects ever created.
For those intrigued by Dalí’s imaginative world, seeing a Lobster Telephone in person is an experience not to be missed. As long as surrealism continues to inspire, the Lobster Telephone will remain an enduring icon of artistic innovation and delightful absurdity.
