In 1967, one of the most unexpected collaborations in aviation and art history took place between the eccentric Spanish surrealist Salvador Dalí and India’s national carrier, Air India.
Air India's unusual memorabilia
Air India was in the habit of commissioning unusual, high-end memorabilia for its first-class passengers. In an ambitious attempt to merge fine art with luxury travel, the airline approached Dalí to design a limited-edition item for its select first-class passengers.
Dalí, already a global icon of surrealism known for dream-like imagery and unpredictable flair, agreed to the commission and created 500 limited edition ashtrays.
Swans Reflecting Elephants
Based on one of his previous artworks, called "Swans Reflecting Elephants," the design comprised a round shell with a serpent around its perimeter, supported by two surrealist headstands - an elephant on one side and a swan on the other.
The fascinating compensation
But the most fascinating part of the story lies not in the ashtray itself, but in Dalí's request for payment. True to his persona, he made a peculiar demand: he wanted a baby elephant as compensation.
Air India, never one to shy away from spectacle, fulfilled this wish. A two-year-old elephant was flown from Bangalore all the way to Geneva, where Dalí received it with delight.
Dali's plans for the elephant
Apparently, Dali had extensive plans for the elephant, one of which included him riding across the Alps on its back, although none of that came to fruition, and the elephant was eventually sent to live out his life in Barcelona Zoo.
This episode captured the imagination of the press and public alike, serving as a moment that perfectly married high art and corporate branding. The ashtrays, now dispersed worldwide, carry with them the echo of Dalí’s eccentric genius and Air India’s bold vision.
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