“The Lining of Sleep,” created by RenĂ© Magritte in 1928 in Paris, France, is an oil-on-canvas painting measuring 50 x 65 cm. A symbolic painting belonging to the Surrealism movement, the artwork is currently part of a private collection.
The artwork portrays a dreamlike and mysterious landscape, characteristic of Magritte’s surrealistic style. The canvas shows a dark, somewhat cloudy background, dominated by hues of blue and grey, giving a somber and enigmatic atmosphere. On the right side, a vertical strip of textured wood pattern contrasts sharply with the softness of the sky. The central area features a series of ambiguous shapes, suggestive of punctuation marks, that appear to float in the sky. There is a distinctive combination of abstract elements and realistic detailing, which evokes a sense of intrigue and contemplation. This painting exemplifies Magritte’s ability to merge the familiar with the strange, inviting viewers to delve into the subconscious mind.