René Magritte

Biography

René Magritte (1898–1967) was a Belgian painter celebrated for his surrealist works that challenge perception, reality, and the ordinary. Born on November 21, 1898, in Lessines, Belgium, Magritte studied at the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels, where he developed a style combining precise realism with imaginative and thought-provoking concepts.

Magritte’s art often depicts ordinary objects in unusual contexts, creating visual paradoxes that question assumptions and provoke reflection. Iconic works include The Treachery of Images (1929), with its famous phrase “This is not a pipe,” The Son of Man (1964), and Golconda (1953), which exemplify his exploration of perception, identity, and reality. His meticulous technique and clever visual metaphors distinguish him as a leading figure in 20th-century art.

Throughout his career, Magritte sought to disrupt conventional thinking, blending humor, mystery, and philosophical inquiry. He continued creating influential works until his death on August 15, 1967, leaving a lasting impact on Surrealism, modern art, and visual culture worldwide.