This exquisite vintage compact is a rare and highly collectible piece designed by the legendary surrealist artist Salvador Dalí in collaboration with Ergon American during the 1950s.
Featuring an intricate bird motif, this compact embodies Dalí's signature surrealism while maintaining an elegant and functional design.
The exterior is beautifully sculpted in the form of a stylised bird, with intricately detailed feather patterns across the wings and body. It is made of gilded metal and gold, with a patina that enhances its vintage charm. The head of the bird is delicately rounded, complete with tiny red gemstone eyes and a small pointed beak, adding to its lifelike yet dreamlike aesthetic. The back of the compact mirrors the front with continued feather detailing, seamlessly blending artistic elegance with functionality.
Upon opening, the compact reveals a powder compartment with a mirror, characteristic of fine mid-century compacts. The hinge and closure mechanism are designed for durability, ensuring that the piece remains both a stunning display item and a functional accessory. The head of the bird where Dali's signature can be found is also the handle for the lipstick which still has the remains of the original red lipstick.
This compact is a true collector’s treasure due to its rarity and artistic provenance. Dalí’s involvement in designing luxury accessories is well-documented but limited, making this piece a unique representation of his artistry beyond painting and sculpture. Produced in limited quantities, it remains a sought-after find for vintage beauty collectors, Dalí enthusiasts, and lovers of surrealist design.
About The Designer - Salvador Dalí:
Salvador Dalí (1904–1989) was one of the most influential and eccentric figures in the surrealist movement. Known for his melting clocks, dreamlike landscapes, and avant-garde aesthetics, Dalí's work pushed the boundaries of art, design, and fashion. His collaborations extended beyond painting into jewellery, textiles, and even cosmetic accessories, bringing surrealism into everyday objects. Dalí’s ability to blend fantasy, symbolism, and luxury is evident in this compact, which transforms a simple beauty item into a sculptural masterpiece.
About The Maker - Ergon American:
Ergon American was a distinguished mid-20th-century luxury accessories brand, known for producing high-quality compacts, vanity items, and decorative objects. The company gained recognition for collaborating with renowned artists and designers, blending functionality with artistic innovation. Their pieces were often made with gilded metals, enameling, and intricate sculptural details, appealing to a sophisticated clientele. This Dalí-designed compact is a prime example of Ergon American’s craftsmanship, embodying both artistic genius and meticulous engineering.
Dimensions :
Length: 11.7 cm
Width: 7.3 cm
Depth: 3.4 cm
Delivery:
We offer worldwide delivery, for U.K and international deliveries please contact us for a quote.
Please allow between 5 - 7 days for delivery in the U.K.
Feel free to contact us to arrange a collection or a viewing appointment
