Their paths first crossed in 1947 on the jury of the École des Beaux-Arts, and again in 1948 at the Salon d’Automne, where Bernard Buffet became a member.

Their true friendship, however, began in 1974, when Yves Brayer actively supported Buffet’s election to the Académie des Beaux-Arts, which took place on 22 January 1975.

Yves Brayer and Bernard Buffet shared far more than a passion for painting. They were united by a profound love of art in all its form – from Antiquity to Flemish, Romantic and Modern art.

They admired artists such as Gros, Delacroix, Géricault, Goya and Francis Gruber, a close friend of Brayer. Both were devoted defenders of figurative art and firmly rejected abstraction. Tireless creators, one painted by day, the other by night.

A selection of works created between 1947 and 1998 reveals the richness and diversity of Bernard Buffet’s artistic career. The exhibition An Artists’ Friendship pays tribute to this exceptional relationship, founded on deep friendship and mutual respect.

To celebrate this unique bond, works by Yves Brayer are displayed alongside those of Bernard Buffet, creating a subtle and intimate dialogue. Several paintings by Buffet also enrich the museum’s permanent collection display.