The Musée des Augustins in Toulouse has acquired three significant paintings by Henri Martin as part of its ongoing enrichment campaign ahead of the museum's anticipated reopening at the end of this year. The institution has been consistently expanding its collection with carefully selected works that demonstrate both variety and relevance to its mission.
The most notable acquisition is "La Course à l'abîme" (The Race to the Abyss), a major early work by Henri Martin (1860-1943) that had remained unpublished and preserved within the artist's family lineage until spring 2023. This previously unknown painting represents a significant addition to the understanding of Martin's formative years as an artist.
The work was first brought to public attention by gallerist Bertrand Moulins, who featured it in his comprehensive exhibition titled "Les années de jeunesse" (The Years of Youth). This rich exhibition was accompanied by a detailed catalog and later expanded to Paris through collaboration with fellow dealer Emeric Hahn. The Paris presentation took place alongside the Salon du Dessin in March 2024, providing broader exposure to this important rediscovery.
The Musée des Augustins' acquisition of these Henri Martin works continues the institution's strategic approach to collection building during its closure period. The museum has been praised regularly for its thoughtful selection process and the pertinence of its new acquisitions, which will enhance the collection available to visitors upon reopening.
This acquisition represents more than just the addition of three paintings; it demonstrates how previously unknown works can emerge from private collections to enrich public institutions. The journey of "La Course à l'abîme" from family collection to gallery exhibition to museum acquisition illustrates the dynamic nature of the art market and the importance of specialized dealers in bringing significant works to light.
