Rene Magritte’s symbolic painting “Force of Habit,” created in 1960 in Brussels, Belgium, is an exemplary work of the Surrealism art movement. The artwork, measuring 61 x 50 cm, currently resides in a private collection. The painting is an evocative depiction, characterizing Magritte’s distinctive style and thematic exploration.
The artwork features a sizable apple with leaves stemming from the top, set against a warm, reddish-brown background framed with a whimsical, wooden border. Prominently displayed in white cursive text at the top is the phrase “This is not an apple,” which paradoxically contradicts the visual representation. Below this, at the bottom of the apple, a small bird appears caged within a window-like opening. The phrase “Ceci n’est pas un Magritte” meaning “This is not a Magritte” further accentuates the surreal and philosophical inquiry posed by the painting. This blend of visual elements and text invites viewers to engage in an introspective dialogue regarding perception, reality, and identity.
