June 22, 2011

La Sarthe Finds

We left the city of Chartres and headed to La Sarthe, the neighboring region known for its green rolling hills and fishing industry.

We found so many wonderful things in this region, we didn’t have time to take many photos, but here’s a sampling.

Hand painted Napoleon III period tole tray with 18th century monkey motif, c. 1840.

We finished our work and rewarded ourselves to a delicious meal at a charming restaurant in a 150 year old stone farmhouse. Situated on the banks of a pond, it was cleverly called “Les Pieds dans l’Eau,” literally “Feet in the Water.” But it’s a French expression that loosely translates to “getting your feet wet” or “giving something a try.” We’re always amazed that the French appreciate their cuisine so much that a gastronomical restaurant such as this one can subsist in the outskirts of a village of a few thousand people.