A painting by surrealist artist René Magritte, titled La Magie Noire, is scheduled for auction in Paris. The artwork has been held in a private collection for over 90 years, having been acquired by the family of Suzanne Spaak. The Spaak family served as benefactors to Magritte during a financially challenging period between 1930 and 1932, when the artist reportedly sold no works and held no exhibitions. Claude Spaak, Suzanne’s husband and a Belgian playwright, commissioned portraits and provided a monthly stipend to Magritte.
Suzanne Spaak is noted for her activities during the Second World War, during which she aided Jewish children. She was arrested by Nazi forces in October 1943 and subsequently died. Magritte passed away in 1967. La Magie Noire will be exhibited at Sotheby’s Paris from October 17 to 23, with its sale planned for October 24.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/oct/05/rene-magritte-superstar-of-surrealism-la-magie-noire-to-go-on-sale-in-paris