A rare masterpiece by Belgian surrealist René Magritte, titled L’empire des lumières (“The Empire of Light”), shattered expectations at a Christie’s auction in New York, selling for over $121 million. This iconic painting celebrated for its juxtaposition of day and night, is now the most expensive Magritte work ever sold.
A Surreal Masterpiece Breaks Records
The L’empire des lumières canvas, painted in 1954, exceeded its $95 million estimate, signaling the enduring appeal of Magritte’s work. Known for its pristine condition and breathtaking details, the painting was described as the “crown jewel” of the late Mica Ertegun’s collection. Featuring a streetscape illuminated by a single streetlamp, the artwork masterfully contrasts a serene blue sky with a nocturnal foreground.
“This motif is one of the few truly iconic images in 20th-century art,” stated Max Carter, Christie’s Vice Chairman of 20th to 21st Century Art. Carter added that the painting’s “extraordinary glow in person” enhances its impact, making it a standout even among Magritte’s storied body of work.
Magritte’s Vision of Day and Night
Magritte’s fascination with blending daylight and nocturnal imagery spanned nearly two decades. The L’empire des lumières series, consisting of 17 oil paintings and 10 gouaches, showcases subtle variations in each version. The 1954 canvas sold this week is one of the largest in the series, underscoring Magritte’s ability to explore profound themes with understated surrealism.
Sandra Zalman, an associate professor of art history at the University of Houston, highlighted how the lamppost in the painting echoes Magritte’s famous bowler-hat figure. “The lamppost’s shadow alludes to the bowler-hatted man, hovering — or haunting — the space that would otherwise be considered a quiet, though eerie, landscape,” Zalman explained.
Art Market Resurgence Amid Uncertainty
The sale of L’empire des lumières provided a glimmer of optimism in an otherwise cautious art market. Global auction sales at Christie’s fell 22% in the first half of 2024, yet standout pieces continue to fetch significant sums. “When icons appear on the market, they create their market dynamic,” Carter remarked.
Magritte wasn’t the only artist to shine in Tuesday’s auction. Two of his other works, La cour d’amour and La Mémoire, sold for $10.53 million and $3.68 million, respectively. Additionally, a still life by David Hockney fetched over $19 million, reflecting sustained interest in modern art.
A Timely Reflection of Surrealism’s Legacy
The sale coincides with the centennial of the surrealism movement, a fitting backdrop for such a momentous auction. Zalman noted the parallels between the surrealists’ era and today’s anxiety-ridden world, saying, “There are almost too many parallels.” She emphasized that with its understated yet profound surrealism, Magritte’s work feels especially resonant in our current moment.
A Bright Spot in Art History
The $121 million sale of L’empire des lumières is not just a triumph for Christie’s but a celebration of René Magritte’s unparalleled contribution to art. As the surrealist movement marks its centenary, this painting’s timeless exploration of light and shadow reminds us of the enduring power of creativity to reflect and transcend the human experience.
