A painting by Belgian surrealist Rene Magritte, L’empire des Lumières, made history as the most expensive artwork sold in 2024. The masterpiece fetched an astounding $121.1 million at a Christie’s auction in New York last month, setting a world record for the artist.
This extraordinary piece, featuring the surreal juxtaposition of a house at night illuminated by a streetlamp under a bright blue sky, is part of Magritte’s renowned exploration of light and shadow.
The Record-Breaking Sale That Stunned the Art World
Christie’s confirmed that the sale shattered the previous record for Magritte’s work, which stood at $79 million since 2022. The painting was initially valued at $95 million but far exceeded expectations during the auction.
The buyer remains anonymous, but the painting’s significance and rarity made it one of the most anticipated highlights of New York’s autumn auction season. Experts believe the sale signals renewed energy in the art market, despite its recent slowdown.
The Story Behind ‘L’empire des Lumières’
Magritte painted L’empire des Lumières in 1954 as part of a series that plays with contrasts between light and darkness. This duality captures the surrealist essence of blending reality with dreamlike imagery.
The painting previously belonged to the late Mica Ertegun, a Romanian-born interior designer and significant art collector. Ertegun, who passed away earlier this year, had been married to Ahmet Ertegun, the founder of Atlantic Records.
A Historic Moment for Christie’s
The sale was part of a highly anticipated auction season at Christie’s, a company owned by the Pinault family’s investment group, Artemis. Christie’s reported total sales of $2.1 billion in the first half of 2024, with L’empire des Lumières standing out as a pinnacle achievement.
“This sale cements Magritte’s place among the world’s most valuable artists,” a Christie’s spokesperson stated. “It’s a momentous occasion for the surrealist movement and art lovers worldwide.”
The Enduring Appeal of Rene Magritte’s Work
Magritte, who passed away in 1967, remains a towering figure in the art world. His works continue to inspire collectors and enthusiasts with their ability to evoke wonder and challenge perceptions.
With L’empire des Lumières, Magritte’s legacy shines brighter than ever. This record-breaking sale not only honors his artistic genius but also reaffirms the timeless allure of surrealism in modern art.
