Leonora Carrington's 1953 painting 'Fil d'Or' is set to appear at Heritage Auctions in New York on November 10, marking its first appearance on the market in 70 years. The painting, valued at $250,000–$350,000, features a cosmic bird composed of intersecting threads emanating from a golden galaxy at its center. Carrington employed the grattage technique, developed by her partner Max Ernst, to create the textured, layered effect. This process involves scraping layers of paint with a blade or spatula, exposing unexpected shapes and patterns. The result is an impression of spontaneous motion, as though the picture were realizing itself. The title 'Fil d'Or' translates to 'gold thread,' a term traditionally associated with the delicate metal wire used to ornament luxury textiles. However, Carrington's use of the title redirects the viewer's attention to consider alternative meanings and how words can be perceived and understood. The painting was created in Mexico, where Carrington fled after World War II and formed a close-knit community with fellow refugees, including Remedios Varos and Kati Horna. They shared an interest in alchemy, the occult, and esoteric symbolism. Carrington's work has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly among female Surrealists, following the 2022 Venice Biennale. Her unique style and technique continue to captivate art enthusiasts, making 'Fil d'Or' a highly anticipated addition to the auction.