The artwork entitled “The Discovery of Fire” was crafted by the artist Rene Magritte in the year 1935. This oil on panel piece is modest in scale, measuring 22.8 by 15.5 centimeters, and is categorized within the symbolic painting genre. Created in Brussels, Belgium, and representative of the Surrealism art movement, the artwork presently resides within a private collection.
“The Discovery of Fire” by Rene Magritte is a surreal and symbolic portrayal that depicts an unexpected juxtaposition. The central figure of the artwork is a large metallic tuba, rendered with a lustrous finish. This musical instrument contrasts strikingly with the dynamic, almost violent flames that emerge from its bell, engulfing one side of the tuba in a fiery embrace. The flames are depicted with a palpable intensity and movement, giving the impression of a live, devouring entity. The backdrop of the artwork is neutral and nondescript, which serves to highlight the surrealism of the burning tuba. Magritte’s signature, located in the upper right-hand corner, is modest, allowing the provocative ensemble of objects to take precedence in the viewer’s gaze. Overall, the painting is a classic example of Magritte’s ability to challenge perceptions and invite contemplation of the fantastical elements present within the mundane.
