Personal values 1952

René Magritte made "Personal Values" using oil on canvas. The smooth surfaces of the objects—the comb, glass, and shaving brush—belie the labor-intensive process of oil painting. Each form is rendered with meticulous detail, showcasing Magritte’s mastery of illusionistic techniques. The hyper-realistic depiction of everyday items is juxtaposed with their uncanny scale and arrangement, inviting us to question the nature of reality and the meaning we assign to familiar objects. The painting prompts us to reflect on our own personal values and the cultural forces that shape our perception of the world. By elevating ordinary objects to the realm of fine art, Magritte challenges the traditional hierarchy between high art and everyday life. This painting encourages us to consider the social context in which these objects exist and the role they play in shaping our identities. Ultimately, the painting suggests that meaning is not inherent in objects themselves, but rather emerges from our interaction with them and the cultural narratives that surround them.