Skip to main content

Dream Painting (Playing Cards and Lotus Blossoms)

1935
Valentine Hugo (French, 1887–1968)
Valentine Hugo’s involvement with Surrealism dates to roughly 1928–36, making her one of the first women artists affiliated with the movement. In that time, she illustrated a number of books of poetry and created portraits of André Breton (French, 1896 - 1966) and other Surrealists. This painting exemplifies her style, which is intimate and loaded with elusive imagery. The playing cards, hummingbird, and lotus blossoms, set amid what looks like a spinning nighttime sky, may recall a dream of Hugo’s. But they may also symbolize more generally the unexpected associations generated by the dreaming mind.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.