Dalí's Ouroboros is more naturalistic than his other prints in Alchimie des Philosophes, and its features are similar to an eel or sea serpent. It is cut into many pieces, though the head biting the tail remains one piece. The decaying pieces represent the alchemical stage of putrefaction, when the alchemical matter decomposes. The pieces are arranged around a large, circular gem. Each facet of the jewel contains a different symbol, including keys and ants. Like the other prints, The Ouroboros was once decorated with semiprecious jewels, in this case three purple ones.

L’Ouraboros

Salvador Dali, Spanish (1904–1989)

Portfolio: Alchimie des Philosophes

Date: 1976

Lithograph on parchment, signed and numbered in marker

Edition of HC 25/30

Size: 30 x 22 in. (76.2 x 55.88 cm)

Frame Size: 43.5 x 35.5 inches

Printer: Art Lithographies

Publisher: Art et Valeur, Paris

Reference: Field 75-12 F