The structure of C23H17O+.C2Cl3O2- has been determined. The three benzene rings are planar, but tilt from the plane of the pyrylium ring at angles of 14.9, 23.7 and 6.1 degrees, respectively. The C-C bond length in the anion is much longer than expected [1.579(7)Angstrom]. The aromatic character of the pyrylium ring is discussed.