This work investigates the foundational principles and historical emergence of the Surrealist movement within the context of early 20th-century avant-garde art. Patrick Waldburg, a noted scholar and witness to the movement, utilizes his deep familiarity with the primary figures to construct a historical framework. The text examines the transition from Dadaism to Surrealism, analyzing how the movement sought to bridge the gap between dream states and reality through artistic expression.

The text provides a scholarly and authoritative overview of the Surrealist movement, reflecting the author's proximity to the artists involved. It serves as a foundational resource for readers seeking to understand the intellectual and aesthetic origins of the movement.