Jacobin Museum, Auch

Located at the foot of the old town of Auch, between the banks of the Gers River and the imposing Sainte-Marie Cathedral, the Jacobin Museum (Musée des Amériques - Auch) is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. This remarkable museum is home to the second largest collection of pre-Columbian artifacts in France, second only to the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac in Paris. Housed in a 15th-century Jacobin convent, the museum offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing over 20,000 objects that span various civilizations and epochs.

The Historical Tapestry of the Jacobin Museum

Established on December 16, 1793, the Jacobin Museum is one of the oldest museums in France. Its extensive collection includes over 8,000 pre-Columbian artworks, thanks to the efforts of Guillaume Pujos and other generous donors. The museum's current home, a beautifully restored Jacobin convent, has been its residence since 1979. This historic building itself is a piece of art, adding to the museum's charm and allure.

Guillaume Pujos: A Legacy of Exploration

Born in Auch on August 8, 1852, Guillaume Pujos embarked on a journey to Latin America in 1879. Initially a tailor, Pujos traveled extensively across the continent, collecting numerous artifacts during his adventures. After returning to France in 1906, he was appointed vice-consul of Spain and later became the museum's curator in 1911. Upon his death in 1921, Pujos bequeathed his entire collection to the city of Auch, significantly enriching the museum's holdings of pre-Columbian art.

A Diverse Collection

The Jacobin Museum's collections are organized into six main sections:

• Pre-Columbian Archaeology: Featuring the second-largest public collection of pre-Columbian art in France, this section includes ceramics, textiles, and goldsmithery from ancient civilizations.
• Latin American Sacred Art: This section showcases religious artifacts that reflect the spiritual heritage of Latin America.
• Antiquities: Including Egyptian antiquities, Gallo-Roman archaeology, and medieval art, this section offers a glimpse into ancient and medieval life.
• Decorative Arts and Furniture: Featuring faience, furniture, and musical instruments, this section highlights the craftsmanship of different eras.
• Gascony Folk Art and Traditions: This section preserves the traditional costumes and cultural artifacts of the Gascony region.
• Fine Arts: Displaying paintings and sculptures from the 17th to the 20th century, this section includes works by artists such as Jacob and Jean-Baptiste Smets, Gabriel Lettu, and Mario Cavaglieri.

Highlights of the Collection

Among the museum's most notable pieces are:

• The Statue of Emperor Trajan: Dating from the 1st century, this statue was discovered near Rome in the 18th century and is part of the Borghese collection.
• The Mass of Saint Gregory: This is the oldest surviving colonial feather mosaic painting in the world, created in 1539. It was displayed at the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris from March 2008 to July 2009.
• The Marble Bust of Louis XVI: Attributed to the renowned sculptor Houdon, this bust is classified as a historic monument.

Exploring the Museum

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the Egyptian art collection. The first floor is home to three galleries dedicated to American art, including the extensive pre-Columbian collection. As you ascend to the second floor, you will find the Fine Arts collection from the 18th century. This floor also houses the Gascony folk art and traditions section, alongside an exhibition on rugby and Gallo-Roman art. The medieval art collection is also located on this floor, showcasing polychrome sculptures of the Virgin and Child.

The Garden

The museum's garden is a 1,600 square meter French-style park featuring boxwood hedges and lime trees. It evokes the decorative and edible plants brought back from the Americas by the Conquistadors, reflecting the museum's collection. The garden also serves as the museum's entrance, creating a serene and picturesque start to your visit.

Renovations and Modernization

From June 2018 to October 2019, the Jacobin Museum underwent significant renovations to create a new ticket office and shop. The original entrance was closed, and a new entrance was established on Rue Bregail, where the Jacobin garden is located. A new atrium was constructed at the entrance, enhancing the visitor experience since the museum's reopening on October 13, 2019. The garden also saw modifications, including the addition of a lawned area.

The Jacobin Museum is not just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant testament to the rich tapestry of human history and culture. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the museum offers a captivating journey through time, making it an essential stop on your visit to Auch.