'La Cabade'

Winifred Fortescue describes this event in detail in the first chapter of 'Perfume from Provence'. It was held to celebrate the finishing of the roof on the Provencal Tower at 'The Domaine'. Traditionally, workmen would decorate their work and expect a half day holiday with bottles of wine and food to drink to the health of the house. Work was due to be completed by the 20th December 1931, although it was delayed by severe frosts - unusual in Provence. Clearly visible in the photograph: standing 3rd & 4th from left on roof top are Sir John and Lady Fortescue, 5th from left 'The Italian Entrepreneur/Foreman'. In the centre of the arched doorway stands Emilia the Bonne and the 3rd man up the sloping ramp is probably Hilaire the Gardener. Also visible and just as described in the book are the fir trees attached to the top of the building for decoration.

Close up of the roof - note the decorative fir tree in pots !

Photograph - A niece of Lady Fortescue