ZdG x World Monuments Fund

Le Potager du Roi

On October 3rd, World Monuments Fund (WMF) celebrated its 60th Anniversary safeguarding cultural heritage around the world with its Gala Evening "Le Règne Végétal" The Plant Kingdom, supporting Le Potager du Roi and its projects across France. Artistic Director, Zoë de Givenchy will bring to life the spirit and heritage of the Potager. 

Celebrating History & Heritage

The evening celebration marked nearly 30 years since the much celebrated gala hosted in the Potager du Roi by French couturier Hubert de Givenchy. His long association had begun in 1993 when the legendary couturier and founding chairman of WMF France, was strolling in the Potager du Roi with his dear friend Rachel Lambert “Bunny” Mellon. They came upon a locked gate — the Grille du Roi — hidden behind time and neglect. Subsequently discovered to be the only surviving gate of the Revolution, that quiet encounter sparked a restoration project that would become the first chapter in WMF’s long-standing engagement at Versailles.

Hubert de Givenchy’s 1996 gala celebrated the restoration of the gate and fountains. It was a moment of elegance and purpose, bringing together patrons and preservationists in the very garden that once nourished the court of Louis XIV.

This coming celebration marks another milestone for a new generation, inspired by a man whose vision helped revive one of Versailles’ most treasured domaines.

A New Generation

The vital work of WMF continues in historic gardens and cultural landscapes around the globe. The Potager du Roi is among the older and more prominent examples of kitchen gardens with both historical and ongoing functional roles. Its continued survival offers lessons in how heritage gardens can stay relevant, preserving our stories and knowledge of the past and giving future generations a sense of identity, continuity and inspiration.

Art de Vivre

In the Versailles tradition of showcasing the very best of France’s living heritage, the collection of art de table and objects designed by Zoë de Givenchy in support of the WMF and its projects in France are a celebration of the finest French artisanal craft and commissioned artists. The first chapter of these will be available to purchase in very limited quantities from October 4th.

COLLECTION COMING SOON

For further information, please contact us HERE