On November 20, 2024, a version of René Magritte's 'L'empire des lumières' was auctioned at Christie's in New York, fetching a staggering $121.2 million (approximately €114 million). This sale marks a significant milestone, as it positions Magritte among the elite artists whose works have sold for over $100 million at auction.
The painting, created in 1954, is part of a series that explores the interplay of light and shadow, depicting a serene street scene under a bright daytime sky contrasted with nighttime elements. The auction exceeded expectations, with pre-sale estimates around $95 million.
The bidding lasted ten minutes, showcasing intense competition between an American collector and an unnamed Asian bidder. This sale not only set a record for Magritte but also established the highest price ever paid for a surrealist painting at auction.
Magritte's previous record was set in March 2022 at Sotheby's in London, where another painting from the same series sold for $79.5 million. The recent auction reflects a growing interest in surrealist art, further solidifying Magritte's status in the global art market.