The world of Surrealism witnessed a historic moment as René Magritte’s “L’empire des lumières” (1954) sold for an astonishing $121.16 million at Christie’s on November 19. This exceptional sale not only eclipsed its pre-auction estimate of $95 million but also crowned the painting as the most expensive Surrealist work ever sold at auction.
The bidding, described as “feverish,” unfolded in just under ten minutes as two determined clients battled over the phone. The auction was part of a sale featuring the collection of Mica Ertegun, a renowned interior designer, philanthropist, and art collector who passed away last December at the age of 97.
A Masterpiece of Surrealist Art
“L’empire des lumières” exemplifies Magritte’s signature style of blending the ordinary with the uncanny. The painting juxtaposes a tranquil nighttime scene of a warmly lit house against a daytime sky adorned with soft, cotton-like clouds. This striking contrast, both serene and unsettling, invites curiosity and introspection.
Magritte revisited this concept in over a dozen versions, exploring the enigmatic interplay of light and shadow. An earlier iteration gained acclaim at the 1954 Venice Biennale, where it featured prominently in the Belgian pavilion before joining the Peggy Guggenheim collection. Responding to demand, Magritte continued this series over 15 years, creating what many consider some of the most evocative works of his career.
Christie’s vice chairman of 20th and 21st-century art, Max Carter, described the version sold as “arguably the finest, most deftly rendered, and hauntingly beautiful of the series.” Its sale not only shattered records but also celebrated the enduring appeal of Magritte’s artistry.
Proceeds to Honor a Legacy
Ertegun’s collection, a reflection of her passion for Surrealist and contemporary art, continues to give back. A portion of the proceeds from the auction will benefit philanthropic initiatives, honoring her legacy and extending her impact beyond her lifetime.
A Milestone Month for Surrealism
The record-breaking sale of Magritte’s masterpiece is not the only highlight for the Surrealist movement. On November 18, Eduardo Constantini, founder of the Buenos Aires Museum of Latin American Art (MALBA), acquired Leonora Carrington’s “La Grande Dame” (1951) for over $11.3 million at Sotheby’s Modern Evening Sale. This purchase follows another record-breaking acquisition by Constantini in May, when he bought Carrington’s “Les Distractions de Dagobert” (1945) for $28.5 million.
These milestones underscore the timeless allure and growing appreciation of Surrealist art, as collectors and institutions continue to celebrate its visionary creativity.
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