Sunday Paper Edition 016: Capturing The Spirit Of Spring
31 March 2022
What’s We're Reading
Spring is a time for fresh perspectives and we are therefore reading the just published The Dawn of Everything – A New History of Humanity. Written by anthropologist David Graeber and archaeologist David Wengrow, this blazingly original and wide-ranging book challenges much of our received notions about the history and development of our societies and political systems. Drawing from a wealth of archaeological field work from around the world, they dismantle the common perception that history has unfolded in a uniform and linear fashion from egalitarian hunter-gatherers to the modern bureaucratic state often characterised by inequality.
They make a compelling argument for how human development has been much more interesting, surprising and textured than we have previously thought, with a high degree of political experimentation, sophisticated debate and cultural innovation, dating as far back as 30,000 years ago.
In doing so, Wengrow and Graeber don’t shy away from directly challenging works from the philosophical canon such as those by Rosseau and Hobbes as well as contemporary intellectual superstars such as Steven Pinker and Yuval Noah Harari.
What We're Drinking
When asking our friends at Buon Vino what they consider to be the perfect springtime bottle, they immediately suggested that we try a VDF Ze Bulle Sparkling Rose 2021 from the Loire-based vintner Bruno Ciofi. Juicy, expressive and with a stunning texture, it has been created using only biodynamic methods. Having a keen interest in agroforestry, Ciofi is known for his innovative and regenerative farming methods including growing his vines amongst fields of horses, cows and beehives to create a mutually supportive ecosystem. We’ll certainly raise a glass to that!
What Springtime Destinations (& Eateries!) We're Dreaming Of
Far from the madding crowd
Italy gets famously busy in the summer but we still have a few weeks before it gets overrun by tourists. We were just in Venice where the calli and canals are still relatively empty. For the perfect lunch, hire a Riva and head to Al Gatto Nero on the island of Burano. Another member of the Métier family just returned from Florence where a perfect springtime meal was had at Le Lune, a restaurant and garden centre on the outskirts of the city. Excellent food and an opportunity to stock up on seasonal gardening essentials all at once!
Fleeting flowers
Japan’s fleeting cherry blossom season is shortly upon us. Our favourite way to enjoy the Sakura is lowkey. Whilst Tokyo’s Ueno Park is the most famous place to practice the ritual of hanami (literally translated as “looking at flowers”), we prefer to head over to Shinjuku Gyoen with a blanket and a bento box for a more laidback experience. After all, cherry blossoms are best enjoyed from below.
Creative recreation
It’s no secret that we are huge fans of Southern France, and more specifically, La Colombe d’Or in St-Paul-de-Vence. Afterall, what’s not to LOVE about the giant Calder sculpture by the pool, the countless masterpieces by Matisse, Braque, Léger and Picasso in the dining room and the world-class collection at the Fondation Maeght just a short stroll away? Mind-blowingly inspirational and always a source of renewed creativity; now is the time to visit, before the summer holidays and Cannes festival begin.
How We Are Staying Organised Whilst On The Go
For his next adventure
Whichever springtime adventure you choose, we will make sure you travel in style and comfort. The Métier piece we would select from our men’s collection is the Wanderer which is deceptively compact but can hold everything you need throughout the day and beyond. Inspired by the Indiana Jones messenger bag, it is the ideal companion for going exploring.
For her new favourite destination
From our women’s collection, the eternally stylish and versatile Roma will carry all your essentials (and then some) as you discover a new favourite destination.
How We Are Staying Cosy Whilst On The Go
Whether you are underneath a cherry tree or onboard a Venetian Riva, the spring air can sometimes be rather chilly. Mark Twain famously said that in spring “I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.” Our solution? Always keeping one of our sumptuous, super-soft and sustainable cashmere throws on hand to stay cosy, stylish and comfortable.