The Vert and the first houses of Labastide 

Henri Martin painted 'The Vert and the first houses of Labastide' employing an interesting technique to capture the French countryside. Martin was working in France at a time of intense debate about the role of the artist in society, with the rise of impressionism and other avant-garde movements. The pointillist style seen here, where small distinct points of color are applied in patterns to form an image, was considered radical. It represents a rejection of traditional academic painting styles, aligning Martin with artists who sought to challenge the established norms of the art world. This image encapsulates the tension between tradition and modernity that defined French society at the turn of the century. For the historian, understanding Martin's choice of subject, style, and his place within the artistic institutions of his time enriches our understanding of this work and its significance. We can explore exhibition records, critical reviews, and biographical details to deepen our understanding.