Sandwiched between Spain and France, the country of Andorra may be tiny but it has some BIG art. This Salvador Dali melting clock sculpture in Andorra la Vella is displayed in the capital city’s main plaza. A simple plaque confirms it is a piece by the famous artist. But even lacking attribution, its surrealist melting clock motif would leave little doubt that it is a Dali creation..
The bronze “Nobility of Time sculpture” is quintessentially Dali. The 16-foot tall piece was donated to the Andorran government by Enric Sabater, who was Dali’s agent between 1968 and 1982. Given its immense value, I was astounded that it sits in open air, with no visible security. A constant stream of people stood next to it (a few even stepped inside the low railing to lean against it) while having their photos taken. Since being installed, the Salvador Dali melting clock sculpture has become one of the major tourist attractions in the country. To learn more about this relatively obscure country, check out my story about visiting Andorra and its famous spa.
Very interestingly you have narrated sandwiches between Spain and France. Salvador Dali’s work really amazing. It impressed me a lot. Many where I gave examples of this work. I wonder why the clock show “five past six” ! Is there any logic behind it ? Please.
Hi Paul: It is said that the famous melting clocks represent the omnipresence of time, and identify its mastery over human beings. Dali’s inspiration for the soft watch came from the surreal way that he saw a piece of Camembert cheese melting in the sun. These symbols represent a metaphysical image of time devouring itself and everything else. However, as to why the clock is set to five minutes after 6, I have absolutely no idea. Sorry!