The artwork titled “Perspective: Madame Récamier de David” was created by Rene Magritte in 1950 in Brussels, Belgium. Utilizing oil on canvas, the artwork belongs to the Surrealism art movement and measures 65 by 50 centimeters. This symbolic painting exemplifies Magritte’s unique approach to blending everyday objects with surreal, dream-like elements.
In the artwork, Magritte presents a classical chair normally associated with neoclassical interiors, yet replaces the figure of Madame Récamier with a wooden coffin. The scene is set within an architectural context featuring an arch and columns, with a burnt orange draped fabric serving as a backdrop. The ensemble is staged in such a manner that the presence of the coffin introduces a macabre twist to what would otherwise resemble a traditional portrait setting. The surreal juxtaposition of familiar elements with unexpected ones evokes contemplation and unease, making the viewer question reality and perception.
