“**Copper Handcuffs**,” created by René Magritte in 1931 in Brussels, Belgium, is an eminent piece housed in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. This symbolic painting, executed in oil and plaster, stands as a significant example of the Surrealism movement.
The artwork features an intriguing juxtaposition that typifies Magritte’s style. It portrays a reimagined version of the classical sculpture, Venus de Milo. Unlike the original sculpture, this version dons an unusual palette—her torso painted in a vibrant yellow, contrasting starkly with her draped lower body rendered in deep, rich blue. This coloration breathes a surreal and symbolic dimension into the artwork, inviting viewers to ponder the underlying themes of transformation and reinvention. The choice of mediums—oil and plaster—adds a unique texture to the piece, further enhancing its enigmatic and dream-like quality reminiscent of the Surrealism movement.
