Dr. D. José González de la Puerta (commissioned directly from the artist by Dr. D. Antonio Viñas Fontanals in 1974)
Thence by descent to the present owner

Executed on cream card, not laid down. The upper edge of the card is deckled, and it is gently time-stained. There are handling marks to the left and right edges, likely studio. The pencil inscription to the lower right corner has slightly faded. This work is in good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Executed in rich sanguine, Alegoría relativa a la higiene y seguridad (Allegory of Health & Safety) is a powerful depiction of a Dalinian horse trotting harmoniously with the goddess of health, Hygieia. This phantasmagorical scene serves as a unique allegory of health and safety, as both figures are painstakingly illustrated with a unique technical virtuosity that is characteristic of Salvador Dalí. While the Dalinian figure of the horse often serves as an ominous reminder of death and decay, as in Le Chevalier de la mort, the present work relays a hopeful message: the Dalinian horse is portrayed full of spirit and life, so much so that the horse’s mane sprouts beautiful branches of leaves. With elegant control and mastery, Hygieia walks gracefully alongside the Dalinian horse. This time health is the master of time. She tames the horse, commands it and secures it. Boasting a provenance befitting its theme, the present work was commissioned directly from the artist by Dr. D. Antonio Viñas Fontenals in 1974. It was then gifted to Fontenals’ colleague, Dr. D. José Gonzalez de la Puerta, as a means of honouring the latter’s work in establishing a Health And Safety institute in Barcelona.



Nicolas and Olivier Descharnes have kindly confirmed the authenticity of this work.