René Magritte

Mme Merckx, Brussels
Private Collection, Brussels
Private Collection, Antwerp (and sold: Sotheby's, London, February 24, 1988, lot 72)
Private Collection, Barcelona (acquired at the above sale and sold: Sotheby's, London, February 4, 2009, lot 208)
Acquired at the above sale 

David Sylvester & Sarah Whitfield, René Magritte, Catalogue Raisonné, Oil Paintings, 1916-1930, vol. I, Antwerp, 1992, no. 3, illustrated p. 124
David Sylvester, Magritte, London, 1992, illustrated in color p. 34

The canvas has not been relined.There are three patches to the reverse of the painting, located in the center background above the figure's head, to the right of the figure and to her left shoulder. Each patch measures: 3 x 3 in, 7.5 x 2.5 in and 2.5 x 4 in. When examined under UV light, there is retouching to each of those locations. There is additional light scattered cosmetic retouching to the background in the upper half of the composition. There is a vertical line of craquelure and very minor paint loss to the area in the background to the right of the figure. Further minor nail-head sized area of paint loss to the lower left corner. The impasto is lively and strong.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This rare work was executed while Magritte was working in a Symbolist style at the Académie royale des beaux-arts in Brussels.