Abstract: The present application relates to an axial turbine engine compressor having a stator with an annular row of stator blades extending radially, an inner ferrule disposed at the inner ends of the stator blades, a downstream brush seal disposed on the inner ferrule which includes a profile of revolution extending substantially axially. The brush seal comprises bristles which extend mainly axially. The compressor also includes a rotor having an annular sealing surface, generally cylindrical or frusto-conical, disposed on the downstream side of the stator blades and which cooperates with the brush seal, so as to provide sealing between the internal ferrule and the rotor. The annular surface surrounds the brush seal, such that the pressure downstream of the brush seal tends to push said seal away from the annular surface. The brush seal wears less in contact with the annular surface.