November 19, 2024 will be remembered as a key date in the history of art and the international influence of René Magritte. That evening, at Rockefeller Center in New York, his emblematic painting “The Empire of Light” was sold for the astronomical sum of $121.16 million in a highly anticipated auction.
This exceptional price, paid by an anonymous American collector, marks a turning point, setting a new world record for a work by the Belgian artist. This dazzling success testifies to Magritte’s undiminished fascination with the art world, and illustrates the irresistible appeal of his work, even decades after his death.
More than a simple achievement, this sale confirms Magritte’s status as one of the pillars of Surrealism and a visionary whose creations continue to inspire and amaze.
An emblematic work from a major series, “The Empire of Light” embodies Magritte’s creative genius in all its splendor. The painting masterfully depicts a house plunged into darkness at night and a luminous sky during the day, creating a striking visual effect. By defying the laws of logic and perception, Magritte invites the viewer to explore a transformed reality, marked by mystery and poetry. This subtle contrast continues to question and fascinate, affirming the power of his art to transcend time.
This record-breaking sale underlines René Magritte’s enduring impact on the collective imagination and his place in art history. The continuing interest in his works, on the part of art lovers and collectors alike, testifies to the appeal of his world.
This resounding success confirms that, more than a century after his birth, Magritte’s legacy remains as captivating as it is essential to contemporary culture.
Read the Christie’s article on the subject.
