In February 2026, Mrs. Martine Graux-Vidal donated to the Collège de France archives two letters from Louis Lavelle (1883-1951, chair of philosophy from 1941 to 1951), accompanied by two of his articles, sent to the painter, illustrator and engraver Louis William Graux (1889-1962). Alongside his work as a landscape painter, Graux was also called upon to illustrate books, notably using the woodcut technique popular in illustrated editions and reprints from the 1930s-1950s. This gift from Martine Graux-Vidal is particularly valuable for understanding the relationship between art and philosophy for both men. She agreed to answer our questions, not only as a donor, but also as a connoisseur of her grandfather's work and archives.
