Time Transfixed, also known as
La Durée poignardée, is a thought-provoking painting by the renowned Belgian artist
Rene Magritte. Created in 1938, this oil on canvas piece is a quintessential example of Surrealism, a cultural movement that aimed to resolve the contradictory conditions of dream and reality into an absolute reality or super-reality. The painting features a realistic depiction of a steam locomotive emerging from a fireplace in a typical bourgeois living room, creating a sense of disorientation and unease.
Artist and Style
Rene Magritte was a prominent figure in the Surrealist movement, known for his witty and thought-provoking images. His work is characterized by its clarity of style and the use of simple objects in unusual contexts, which create a sense of mystery and unease.
Time Transfixed is a classic example of Magritte's style, showcasing his ability to challenge our perceptions of reality.
Painting Description
The painting measures 147 x 99 cm and is part of the permanent collection of the
Art Institute of Chicago. It depicts a "Black Five" locomotive jutting out of a fireplace, at full steam, in an empty room. Above the mantlepiece is a tall mirror, which reflects only the clock and one candlestick standing on the mantlepiece, suggesting that there are neither people nor furniture in the room.
Importance and Significance
Time Transfixed is a masterpiece of Surrealist art that challenges our perceptions of reality and invites us to question the world around us. The painting's use of unexpected juxtapositions and dreamlike imagery creates a sense of unease and disorientation, making it a fascinating study of the human psyche. To learn more about
Rene Magritte and his work, visit
René Magritte Paintings. For a deeper understanding of the Surrealism movement, explore
Top 5 Famous Surrealism Paintings of All Time.
Experience the world of Surrealism with hand-made oil painting reproductions from
ArtsDot.com.
Explore the
Art Institute of Chicago and its collection of Surrealist art, including
Time Transfixed by
Rene Magritte.
Discover the fascinating world of
Surrealism and its key figures, including
Rene Magritte, on Wikipedia.