Exploring Marseille: our true-blue moodboard

Our iconic Marseille blue just never goes out of fashion. This rich, saturated hue transports you straight to the deep-blue seas of the Mediterranean and the sun-soaked countryside that borders it. Our team headed to the vibrant Provençal port city after which our true blue is named, and we put together this utterly beautiful Marseille lookbook to inspire you – and your cooking – with the warm, effortless and enduring spirit we found there.

TRUE BLUE REVIVAL
There is something so soothing, tranquil and timeless and yet utterly vibrant and refreshing about our deeply saturated Marseille blue, with its graduated tones that range from the delicate hue of the waves as they lap gently at the shore to the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a colour that you see everywhere around you when you wander around the fascinating historical city of Marseille – from the thickly painted doors and windowframes painted in this traditional colour to the brightly coloured fish as they are unloaded fresh from the boats en route to the markets that pepper the city’s squares. Despite its long history, Marseille blue never gets tired: this gorgeous hue is tonally bang on-trend for 2015, and adds a timeless richness and tranquil charm to any kitchen.

A VISUAL FEAST
Our team discovered that Marseille is packed with artworks, paintings, graphics, design and architecture that honours this irresistible blue. Artists through the ages – from Impressionists to modern-day graffiti artists – have expressed their joie de vivre with splashes of rich cobalt blue. If a colour could have a personality, this Marseille blue would be bold and spirited, down to earth and optimistic, steady and constant. Take a look for yourself…

SPICED WITH LIFE
The palette of Marseille – from the intense sky blue to the azure waters – reflects the warmth, sincerity and classic style of the people who call it home. Multicultural Marseille has been a Mediterranean gateway port for thousands of years, and its citizens reflect the rich influences  – both cultural and culinary – of neighbouring countries and continents. We loved seeing the real face of Marseille on the ancient cobbled streets and in the lively markets of today’s French city. Sharing simple yet lovingly cooked food is an integral part of Marseille culture – a necessary and joyous way of life.

MAKE MARSEILLE YOUR OWN
Even if you’re thousands of miles from the Med and the brightly saturated sunlight of Marseille, you can capture its essence in your own home. Choose subtle accents in this rich blue – think salt and pepper grinders, cappuccino mugs or a spoon rest – or immerse yourself in the generous spirit and lust for life of the Marseillais with a big splash of blue – cast-iron casseroles and griddles or large stoneware platters and salad bowls. Either way, every time you sit down to another joyous gathering with family and friends, raise your glass and say: ‘Sante!’

To view our full range of products, visit our online shop at www.lecreuset.co.za or pop into your nearest Le Creuset Boutique store.