René Magritte *La Peine Perdue* (Labor in Vain)

Lithograph, 2010

Limited edition of 275 (17/275)

Published by: ADAGP, Succession Magritte

Printer: Philippe Moreno, Atelier Art-Lithographies (Paris)

60.00 cm × 45.00 cm (sheet size)

47.00 cm × 38.00 cm (image size)

Signed in the plate

Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity

Condition: Excellent

Based on the original work: "La Peine Perdue," 1962

Rives BFK paper

Blind stamp of ADAGP and MAGRITTE Estate

Slight stain in the bottom right corner

This work is currently held by our partner gallery in France. According to their standards, the condition is good, but it is possible that the criteria for evaluating the condition of aged items may differ between France and Japan. Please consider purchasing after acknowledging that the item may show signs of age (stains, discoloration, creases, wrinkles, foxing, etc.) typical of a vintage item. Please note that we have not personally inspected the actual item. The artwork is currently stored in France, and it will take over two weeks for delivery after your order. Due to the nature of the artwork, returns after purchase are not accepted.

Artwork Commentary

"La Peine Perdue" expresses, in an extremely sophisticated manner, the paradox of "hiding" and "showing" that René Magritte repeatedly explored.

The canvas depicts a curtain reminiscent of a stage curtain. However, the usual role of a curtain — to hide something and imply what lies behind it — is completely lost here.

This is because the curtain itself is composed of sky and clouds.

The viewer expects something to be beyond the curtain. Yet, there is no secret, no hidden stage. The curtain is supposed to be a device of disclosure and concealment, but its very meaning is quietly neutralized.

Through this visual paradox, Magritte questions the premises of our perception.

When we see an image, we expect there to be meaning or truth behind it. But Magritte shows that this expectation itself is an illusion.

The soft tones of the blue sky and clouds lend a tranquil poetic quality to the work, yet their very calmness creates a profound philosophical unease.

"La Peine Perdue" is a significant work that concisely and clearly presents the fundamental themes Magritte explored throughout his life:

What is representation?
What does it mean to see?
Is there truly something beyond the image?

Title Commentary

La Peine Perdue

Literally translates to:

"Lost Effort"
"Vain Endeavor"

This is a highly suggestive title.

In the work, the viewer unconsciously expects,

"There must be something beyond the curtain."

However, that expectation is betrayed.

No matter how much one stares, nothing is hidden behind it.

Thus, the title implies that

our very act of searching for meaning is a futile effort.

A quiet and intellectual irony, typical of Magritte.