The artwork, entitled “The Face of Genius,” was created by the artist René Magritte in 1926 in Brussels, Belgium. This symbolic painting, which measures 75 by 65 centimeters, is a notable contribution to the Surrealist art movement.
The artwork depicts an enigmatic and ethereal large white bust of a face positioned against a dark, mysterious background. A striking characteristic of the artwork is the segmented portions of the face, with sections unnaturally removed, revealing shadowy spaces that lead to deeper layers. Positioned on what appears to be a wooden pathway surrounded by ambiguous dark forms, the artwork creates a stark contrast between the pale visage and the obscure backdrop. This visual arrangement evokes a sense of dream-like surrealism, consistent with the broader themes of the Surrealist movement, inviting viewers to contemplate the intricate and elusive nature of genius itself.