Report and photos by Stijn Sioen
Every two years, Christophe Pund from the Galerie des Damiers invites his friends for a picnic on the first of May. Or also known in some countries of Europe as ‘Le Jour du Muguet’, a day for celebrating friendship. The perfect location for this event is his idyllic hilltop garden in the town of Cassel in Northern France.
Every guest brings along his most beloved automobile and items for their own picnic. And since held in France, in most cases that means some baguettes, du fromage et du vin.
The purpose of this intimate gathering is to meet and exchange information about the rare cars they bring along. The day usually begins with a little road trip that ends with the hill climb of Cassel, yet a conflicting cycling race meant it was not possible in 2013.
There were some of the finest pre-war vehicles present. While it doesn’t matter if one brings along their most precious Bugatti, a perfect patinated Alfa or Lancia, a polished Ferrari 275 GTB Scaglietti or a beloved french Citroen 2CV, the important thing is to have a passion for automotive history no matter the price tag.
Mr. Pund had also a little exhibition of La Galerie Des Damiers with the 1959 Abarth-Alfa Romeo by Colani as centre piece. All in all, a perfect setting for keeping the spirit alive and pursuing your automotive passion.
Le Premier Mai a Cassel 2013 – Photo Gallery (click image for larger picture)
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[Source: Stijn Sioen]
and forgot about that one again, great turn out though
“The European rich are different from you and me.”
“Yes. They drive much nicer cars. Even their rusted hulks are nicer than ours.”
Seriously, though, it’s wonderful that someone spends the enormous sums required to keep these lovely old machines running.