Magritte Masterpiece Damaged, Temporary Art Arrives

René Magritte's masterpiece, 'The Castle of the Pyrenees,' is currently undergoing conservation at the Israel Museum following accidental damage. The incident occurred approximately two months ago when a young visitor's pinecone caused a tear in the 1959 oil painting's canvas. While specialists meticulously restore the artwork in the museum's open conservation laboratory, a Belgian collector has lent a 1962 gouache version of the same imagery. This thoughtful loan allows the public to continue experiencing Magritte's unique vision.

The original painting, a cherished piece donated by Harry Torczyner in 1985, is considered a highlight of the museum's modern art collection. The ongoing restoration involves stabilizing the canvas and restoring paint layers using specialized techniques. Visitors are invited to observe this complex process firsthand. The gouache, previously shown at the museum in 2022, will be on display until the oil painting's restoration is complete and it returns to its permanent gallery.

The generous loan from the anonymous collector ensures that visitors can still appreciate Magritte's genius during the restoration period. Museum director Prof. Yasha Jacob Grobman highlighted the gesture's significance, allowing patrons to engage with the artist's work even as the original undergoes essential care. The expectation is that 'The Castle of the Pyrenees' will soon be back on public display.