Magritte conquering New York

The art world is often a dance between monetary value and aesthetic value. This November, at a Christie’s auction in New York, that dance might reach its peak with L’empire des lumières by René Magritte, estimated to fetch over $95 million. This work, which could set a new record for the Belgian surrealist master, is a masterpiece that transcends mere numbers. It speaks to us about light, darkness, and above all, the cultural legacy that art can carry.

The painting, created in 1954, is part of an iconic series in which Magritte plays with the notions of day and night. Each piece in the 27-work series plunges us into a universe where a sunny sky coexists with nocturnal scenes. This contrast, this interplay between shadow and light, is characteristic of Magritte's work, which constantly sought to question our perception of reality. If L’empire des lumières manages to meet or exceed its estimate, it will not only be a victory for Christie’s but a sign that the art market, despite economic storms, maintains an insatiable appetite for masterpieces. Indeed, in 2022, another painting from the same series almost tripled Magritte’s previous record, reaching $79.7 million at Sotheby’s. This resurgence of interest in surrealist art, particularly in a climate where auction sales industry-wide have declined, demonstrates the resilience of this artistic genre, which continues to captivate viewers.

However, the appeal of this sale does not rest solely on the painting itself. It is also inextricably linked to the story of Mica Ertegun, the illustrious interior designer and art collector, whose legacy will be highlighted through this sale. Ertegun, who lived to 97 years old, dedicated her life to art, culture, and philanthropy, amassing works that reflect her unique aesthetic vision. Other pieces from her collection include works by Joan Miró and David Hockney, as well as a chaise longue by Ingrid Donat. Max Carter, a vice president at Christie’s, emphasized that L’empire des lumières perfectly captures Mica’s aesthetic. In its balance and finesse, this work mirrors her artistic eye. This holistic approach to Ertegun’s collection, juxtaposing surrealism, modernism, and even elements of Pop Art, is particularly revealing, reminding us that art is not only a question of monetary value; it is also about dialogue between eras and movements.

What makes this sale even more significant is the philanthropic intention that accompanies it. A substantial portion of the proceeds will be allocated to initiatives that Mica Ertegun supported during her lifetime, notably the Graduate Studies in Humanities Program at Oxford University and the World Monuments Fund. Thus, every dollar spent at this sale will not only represent an investment in a work of art but also a contribution to causes that profoundly shaped her life. This shift in the perception of art as a means of social engagement reflects a collective desire to redefine what it means to collect. Beyond material possessions, it’s about building a legacy that transcends simple financial transactions. In a world where economic uncertainties prevail, this painting reminds us that some things, like beauty and commitment to the common good, will always find their place in our lives. This sale, which begins on November 19 and ends on December 18 with an online auction, promises to be a key moment in the 2024 art calendar.