Sale: Espace Cardin, Paris, November 18, 1972, lot 199
Carl Laszlo, Basel
Galerie Ise Brachot, Brussels (and sold: Christie's, London, June 28, 1983, lot  226)
Acquired at the above sale by the present owner

Brussels, Galerie Lou Cosyn, Exposition Magritte, 1947

David Sylvester, ed., René Magritte Catalogue Raisonné, vol. IV, London,🐼 1994, no. 1230, i♍llustrated p. 85

Executed on paper, laid down on card. Apart from a line of discolouration running along the left edge, not visible when framed, this work is in very good condition.
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.

Shéhérazade was a legendary Persian queen and storyteller of the Arabian Nights. She provided one of Magritte's most enduring motifs, and her face of intricate strung pearls alludes to the seductive mystery she exuded, as well as the lavish palace setting where the stories were told. Magritte's oeuvre presents her in a number of settings: in the present work she rises above a dreamlike mountain and sky, all piercing blues eyes and plump red lips. She stares out directly and unashamedly, drawing the viewer in towards her alluring presence, that seems at once powerful and vulnerable. She inhabits a world where time appears to stand still, a mirage-like figure of dreams who threatens to dissolve if one get🌠s too close. Shéhérazade is a manifestation of man's subconscious sexual desire, a theme which was o﷽f course of primary importance to artists associated with Surrealism.