In February 2020 Braintree Museum opened a special exhibition celebrating the legacy of the Courtauld family and textile company in Essex and further afield. The exhibition included objects relating to a host of fascinating family members, including a suffragette poster by Catherine Courtauld and a flag taken to the Arctic by Augustin Courtauld, Samuel Courtauld’s art collection was represented by four rare woodblock prints by Paul Gauguin, bought in 1924 and donated to the Courtauld Gallery on his death. These prints offered a rare opportunity to see the innovative and unusual techniques employed by this significant post-impressionist artist.

Courtaulds: Innovation, Origins, Family also featured objects and displays relating to the history of the textile company and a highlight of the exhibition was the chance to hear the memories of former employees of Courtaulds Ltd, carefully collected and edited by local volunteers.

The exhibition text and objects are available to view on the Braintree Museum website: https://www.braintreemuseum.co.uk/exhibitions/

The exhibition opened on 31st January 2020 with a preview for Courtauld family members, volunteers, former employees and invited guests. Below are some photos from the opening.