Under a glorious late September sky, the Domaine de Chantilly was once again the dream setting for the Garden Party, Chantilly Arts et Élégance Richard Mille which has now become must an unmissable date in the early autumn calendar. This year’s 6th edition attracted more visitors than ever before with a total of 20 000, many in their Sunday best, ambled down Memory Lane retracing the history of some of the world’s most iconic motorcars.
From the conception of this unique event back in 2014, Richard Mille has been present as the title sponsor. Each year the brand’s dedicated space is a source of both inspiration and curiosity. Visitors found themselves in a bucolic timewarp, beamed into a seemingly ancient past where beautiful green goddesses were entwined with the walls and foliage, against the canvas of the blue sky above. A 60s Citroën DS car emerged, cupped in the clasp of godlike giant fingers, from some hermetic netherworld. The vert de gris statues of enchanting divinities looked on bemused as visitors mingled.
The more astute of the Goddesses certainly had no trouble recognizing the prestigious Richard Mille family members present. Among those communing were Mutaz Essa Barshim, Miles Chamley-Watson, Flore Giraud, Lilou Wadoux, Tatiana Calderón, Margot Laffite, Diana Luna, Thomas Roussel and Benjamin Millepied.
The competition was fun, but fierce. A total of 40 clubs presented some 700 cars on display throughout the grounds. Vehicles from all over the world scanned the entirety of the 20th century —the oldest was from 1905—, all coveting prizes in the different categories. The Concours d’État was won by a Hispano-Suiza H6C Dubonnet Xenia —1938— for the years before 1939 and a Talbot Lago T26 GS Barchetta Motto —1950— for the post-war period.
The Aston Martin DBR22 obtained the Best of Show Concours d’Élégance and The Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club walked off with the Grand Prix des Clubs FFVE. In an echo of the 1920’s Concours d’Élégance, were associated with a leading Maison de couture. A special tribute was also paid to the 24 Hours of Le Mans celebrating its Centenary next year.
Patrick Peter, co-organiser of the event, commented:
“Together with my friend Richard Mille, we have created not only a competition for lovers of vintage cars, but what is essentially also a true celebration of l’Art de Vivre à la française in terms of gastronomy and decoration. This year, we particularly wanted children to take part and there were a large number of attractions specifically aimed at them.”
One such event has particular resonance for Richard Mille, Les Hérissons au Cœur d’Or. The association offers support and help for children in hospital and their families.Fashion, iconic automobiles, tasty treats and charitable work - all contributed to making this year’s edition a standout success. From the great-grandfather of the motor industry to the squeals of delight of young children, Chantilly truly spanned the link between yesterday and today!
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