The Balcony

The Balcony

René Magritte

c. 1949

Accession Number

117496

Medium

Red chalk with stumping on cream wove paper

Dimensions

44.5 × 36.5 cm (17 9/16 × 14 3/8 in.)

Classification

chalk

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States

Credit Line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Shapiro

Background & Context

Background Story

Rene Magritte's The Balcony (1950) is a painting by the Belgian Surrealist. Magritte (1898-1967) was known for his witty, thought-provoking images that challenge our assumptions about reality. The Balcony likely shows figures on a balcony rendered with Magritte's characteristic deadpan precision.

Cultural Impact

Magritte was one of the most important Surrealist painters.

Why It Matters

This balcony scene challenges our perception of reality with Magritte's characteristic wit.